Female employee sues after being told to 'get over' sexual harassment

TEXARKANA-A female employee of an east Texas company has filed a gender discrimination lawsuit after her supervisor told her to get over the sexual harassment and hostile work environment or quit.

Claiming violations of her civil rights, Sheria Martz filed suit against Advance Construction Service Inc., doing business as Najor Enterprises Inc., on Sept. 23 in the Eastern District of Texas, Texarkana Division.

Martz states she was subjected to gender discrimination, sexual harassment and a hostile work environment by her supervisor. She claims she was referred to in obscene terms and was regularly embarrassed and humiliated due to crude sexual commentaries on her female anatomy. When she complained of the behavior, her work schedule was decreased, Martz alleges.

According to the lawsuit, Martz states she was fired when she refused to "either get over it and go back to work or quit."

"The refusal of Defendant Advance officials to treat Plaintiff's complaint seriously, their refusal to investigate her claims of sexual harassment and retaliation and their refusal to take corrective action constitute additional acts of gender harassment against Plaintiff," the suit states.

The plaintiff is seeking damages for lost wages and benefits, damages for mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, interference with personal relationships, physical illnesses and other physical problems, attorney fees and costs.

Martz is represented by Texarkana attorney William B. Harrell.

Jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge David Folsom is assigned to the case.

Case No. 5:10cv00167