Andrea Trischan Files Complaint Against Phoenix Suns, Alleges Wrongful Termination and Hostile Work Environment
In a notable development for the Phoenix Suns organization, former program manager of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), Andrea Trischan, has filed a formal complaint alleging wrongful termination and seeking $60 million in damages. Trischan has taken her case to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Arizona attorney general's office's civil rights division.
Trischan, who joined the Suns in September 2022 and worked until July 2023, claims she faced unwarranted dismissal after being placed on a performance improvement plan in May 2023. Her attorney, Sheree Wright, has asserted that Trischan endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment during her tenure, allegations that Trischan reported to HR and executive leadership but were never addressed.
Controversial Appointments and Alleged Retaliation
Particularly troubling for Trischan was the organization’s decision to appoint several executives accused of misconduct to a newly established diversity council. These concerns were communicated to Kim Corbitt, the head of HR for the Suns, highlighting a potential clash between DE&I initiatives and the actions of the management. Trischan's voiced concerns seem to have escalated tensions, culminating in what she describes as retaliatory measures against her.
The Suns have vigorously denied any wrongdoing. Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of communications for the Suns and Mercury, dismissed Trischan's charges, claiming they were unfounded and opportunistic. "A former employee who last worked for the organization in 2023 was terminated after less than 10 months due to repeated failure to perform her job duties," Mitch stated. "This individual filed a baseless charge with a state agency and is now trying to use ESPN reporting from 2022, specific to previous ownership, to make egregious claims in order to support her ridiculous demand for $60 million from the Suns organization."
Suns' Leadership Changes and Previous Controversies
The backdrop to Trischan’s departure includes significant leadership changes within the Suns organization. Former team president and CEO Jason Rowley resigned in February 2023, coinciding with Mat Ishbia's acquisition of the team. This purchase was completed following the NBA’s suspension of the Suns’ former owner, Robert Sarver, due to findings of inappropriate workplace conduct. With this turbulent history, the organization has faced extensive scrutiny regarding its internal culture and management practices.
In response to Trischan’s allegations, the Suns have reiterated their commitment to a fair and thorough evaluation by the Arizona Civil Rights Division (ACRD). A spokesperson for the Suns conveyed the team’s confidence that the review would substantiate their stance. "The Suns continue to participate in the [Arizona Civil Rights Division] review in good faith. We are confident that after the ACRD completes its review of Ms. Trischan’s charge, the ACRD will confirm that Ms. Trischan’s claims are factually and legally baseless."
Diversity Council Under Scrutiny
Trischan’s criticism of the diversity council formed a significant part of her complaint. She questioned the suitability of certain executives for membership on this council, citing their alleged past misconduct. In a counterpoint, a Suns spokesperson defended the council's intention. "Ms. Trischan's claims regarding the diversity council are misleading. The purpose of the diversity council, which is comprised of the entire executive team and other leaders in the organization, is to listen to the diversity data and information on DE&I initiatives to continue to further the organization's DE&I commitment."
Organization’s Pledge to DE&I
The Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury organization persist in their efforts to bolster DE&I within the team structure, aiming to create what they describe as a "world-class organization for every employee." Despite the allegations and subsequent media scrutiny, Stacey Mitch remains resolute in the team's position. "To be clear, this individual is making false claims in an attempt to gain tens of millions of dollars. We are confident the courts will find no merit to these claims and quickly resolve this matter."
As the investigation by the Arizona Civil Rights Division continues, all eyes will be on the Suns' next moves as they navigate these serious allegations and strive to maintain their DE&I commitments. Trischan's allegations, intertwined with the history of past misconduct within the organization, underscore the ongoing challenges professional sports teams face in creating inclusive and supportive workplace environments.