Former Philadelphia labor official alleges firing followed her complaints of sex discrimination.

A former high-ranking official of the Philadelphia labor department has filed a federal lawsuit alleging discriminatory practices that render the city’s labor management as perpetuating gender bias. Monica Marchetti-Brock, who served as the first deputy director of the Department of Labor, contends that she was denied a promotion on account of her gender, and subsequently fired after voicing concerns over a culture of discrimination that has persisted across multiple mayoral administrations.

Marchetti-Brock’s lawsuit, initiated in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, claims that she was dismissed by Mayor Cherelle Parker in early 2024, just days after expressing serious concerns regarding gender discrimination at the executive level of the city’s government—issues she asserts predate Parker’s tenure. Having worked for the city since 2013, she reached one of the highest positions within the labor department under former Mayor Jim Kenney but alleges that her qualifications were overlooked when Richard Lazer, the previous deputy mayor for labor, resigned in 2022.

The position was filled by Basil Merenda, a former state labor official whom Marchetti-Brock describes as someone with a troubling attitude towards women. Following her upward trajectory in the city’s labor hierarchy, the lawsuit suggests that her working relationship with Merenda deteriorated significantly, noting instances where he allegedly disparaged her and ignored her contributions while prioritizing the input of male counterparts.

The suit highlights how, after Parker ascended to the mayorship, Marchetti-Brock once again sought a leadership role in labor but was passed over in favor of another male candidate, Perritti DiVirgilio. Following her dismissal, an independent investigation was reportedly conducted into Merenda’s conduct, ultimately recommending he participate in implicit bias training, though it concluded that no policy violations occurred.

Marchetti-Brock’s complaint underscores a perceived pattern of retaliation against her after she reported her concerns about sexual discrimination to high-ranking officials within the city, including the City Solicitor and Chief Administrative Officer. Moreover, she asserts that the city downplayed the findings of the external investigation and failed to address the systemic issues she raised.

With the lawsuit now pending in federal court, Marchetti-Brock seeks acknowledgment of the alleged discrimination and claims damages for her treatment. Her case highlights ongoing discussions around gender equity and workplace culture within city governance, stirring broader inquiries into accountability mechanisms present within city structures. As this case unfolds, it serves as a critical reminder of the importance of fostering equitable practices in public service roles across all levels of government. Media News Source.