FedEx Settles in Discrimination Lawsuit

Statistical analysis by an auditing company found FedEx to be discriminating in their hiring process which affected nearly 22,000 applicants. They're analysis found that Hispanics, African Americans, Native Americans, and women were rejected for positions based on their sex, race, or country of origin. Studies showed that "of the 21,635 rejected applicants covered by the settlement, 61 percent were female, 52 percent African-American, 14 percent Hispanic, 2 percent Asian and 1 percent Native American. " The women were often automatically ruled out because of the need for heavy lifting.

FedEx settled for 3 Million dollars although they admit no wrongdoing. They understand a more lengthy trial would be more costly. The result of this settlement will also open up 1,700 new jobs, upon the opening of the position, to these once rejected applicants.

I have a difficult time believing FedEx did anything wrong in their hiring process. There are certain standards which must be met like physical capabilities and time requirements. The article does not divulge the extent of their research, just the facts that more white men were hired than black, Hispanics, and women. If all grounds were held equivalent, number of applicants, physical and social demeanor, I believe the percentage of hired applicants would be much more even across the spectrum.

More Information can be found at: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/22/business/fedex-agrees-to-pay-3-million-to-settle-a-discrimination-case.html?ref=business