Michigan Firefighter Settles Gender Discrimination Suit for $85,000

The City of Jackson, Michigan, has agreed to pay $85,000 to settle a federal discrimination lawsuit filed by Annie Wallen, the Jackson Fire Department’s first female firefighter. The settlement resolves claims Wallen brought under federal and state civil rights laws arising out of her employment with the department.

The settlement was reached shortly before the case was scheduled for trial in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. As part of the agreement, the lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice and the City was not required to admit liability.

Wallen was hired by the Jackson Fire Department in 2019 and alleged that from the outset of her employment she was subjected to unequal treatment and a hostile work environment based on her sex. As previously reported here in 2024, her lawsuit alleged that the department failed to provide properly fitting turnout gear, lacked private locker and shower facilities for female firefighters, and required her to change clothes in a janitor’s closet. She also alleged that she was forced to wait to shower last because the station’s open shower facilities were in use by male firefighters.

The complaint further alleged that Wallen was subjected to sexually explicit comments and conduct, inappropriate physical contact, and other behavior she claimed was discriminatory and harassing. According to the lawsuit, Wallen raised concerns through her chain of command but contended that the issues were not adequately addressed. She resigned in 2022, concluding “she could no longer endure working in the Department.”

Wallen’s claims were brought under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. She sought damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and other relief.

Under the terms of the settlement approved by the court, the City agreed to pay $85,000 to resolve the matter. Court records reflect that the case has been closed. More on the story.