Horizon Agency Racial Discrimination Lawsuit – Executives Allege Bias
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Horizon Media Sued for Racial and Gender Discrimination
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A lawsuit alleges systemic discrimination and retaliation against two Black executives at the prominent media agency.
The Allegations: A Pattern of Discrimination
A lawsuit filed in federal court on Thursday,February 8,2024,accuses Horizon Media,the largest privately owned media agency in the world,of racial and gender discrimination,perpetuating a hostile work environment,and retaliation. The plaintiffs, Charisma Deberry, currently Vice President of Strategic Communications and Engagement at Horizon, and Latraviette Smith-Wilson, former Chief Marketing and Equity Officer, claim executives at the agency discriminated against them and retaliated when they opposed or reported unfair treatment.
Both executives are black, and Smith-Wilson was the company’s highest-ranking Black woman before her termination in April. The complaint specifically names Founder & CEO Bill Koenigsberg,President Bob Lord,and EVP of HR Nancy Galanty as engaging in a “sustained,escalating campaign of race- and gender-based discrimination.”
The lawsuit details specific instances of alleged biased behavior. Deberry claims she was described as not “articulate,” while Smith-Wilson was reportedly demeaned as “defensive” and “incompetent,” despite formal complaints being filed. The plaintiffs also allege exclusion from key meetings, even when their presence was crucial.
The Plaintiffs and Their Roles
Charisma Deberry currently holds the position of Vice President of Strategic Communications and Engagement at Horizon Media. Her role focuses on shaping and delivering the agency’s communications strategy.
Latraviette smith-Wilson previously served as Horizon’s Chief Marketing and Equity Officer. her termination in April is a central point of contention in the lawsuit, with the plaintiffs alleging it was retaliatory. As the highest-ranking Black woman at the agency, her departure raises concerns about the company’s commitment to diversity at the leadership level.
Horizon Media’s Response
Horizon Media responded to the lawsuit with a statement provided to ADWEEK, stating: “Horizon is proud of our 35-year history of fostering an inclusive and award-winning culture. While we do not comment on pending litigation, we categorically reject these allegations and are prepared to vigorously defend them. We maintain the highest standards and stand firmly in our values and our people. We are focused on serving our clients and continuing to be one of the best places to work in the industry.”
this response emphasizes the company’s commitment to inclusivity while simultaneously denying the allegations. The firm’s intention to “vigorously defend” the lawsuit suggests a strong stance against the claims.
Company Overview: horizon Media
Horizon Media is a prominent self-reliant media agency, working with a diverse portfolio of blue-chip brands including SharkNinja, Spectrum, and Warby Parker. The company employs approximately 2,500 staffers globally.
Horizon’s motto, “business is personal,” and its past promotion of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives create a stark contrast with the allegations presented in the lawsuit.This discrepancy is a key element of the plaintiffs’ argument, highlighting what they perceive as a disconnect between the company’s public image and its internal practices.