A federal judge has let two Pacific Northwest ILWU Locals off the hook for punitive damages in a case brought by Jennifer Murray, a longie who claimed she was forced to leave the industry because of lewd comments, unwanted touching, sexual propositions and unfair treatment by union foremen because she is a woman. In 1997, she sued Local 19 where she worked, Local 98 the foremen’s union, and the Pacific Maritime Association.
After hearing her story, a Seattle jury earlier this year awarded her $30,000 for lost wages, $250,000 for future lost wages, $70,000 for emotional distress, and $400,000 in punitive damages, plus attorney fees expected to top $250,000.
Although folks are still awaiting a final ruling, the judge has struck down $200,000 in the punitive damages for Local 19, and $120,000 for Local 98. The PMA is still on the hook for $80,000. He has also denied a PMA and union request for a new trial. Still to be decided is how much the defendants owe her attorneys and how that bill will be split. The lawyers are asking for $290,000.
The legacy of the Murray case goes beyond money. In an attempt to head off such situations, the PMA and union have been setting up sexual harassment awareness classes.
