Red state sues tech giant IBM over diversity ‘quotas’

The state of Missouri has filed a lawsuit against the technology giant, International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), for unlawful practices in allegedly requiring racial and gender quotas in its hiring and promotion structures for employees. 

Missouri Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed suit Thursday against the company, alleging that such practices are a violation of the Missouri Human Rights Act. 

“It has come to my attention that IBM has adopted an unlawful policy that blatantly favors applicants of a certain gender or skin color over others, and that managers within the company who refuse to comply with said policy faces adverse action, including and up to, termination. Discrimination in the workplace violates both state and federal law, which is why I am filing this lawsuit,” Bailey said. 

“Missourians deserve answers as to why one of the largest technology and consulting companies in the world, with offices based in Missouri, is discriminating against both prospective and current employees,” he said. 

The lawsuit filed in the circuit court of St. Louis County, alleges that when making employment decisions, IBM uses a “diversity modifier,” a standard requiring the company to annually obtain certain hiring quotas based on race, color, national origin, sex or ancestry. 

“If an IBM executive meets the quotas, IBM gives them the carrot: a plus on their bonus. But if he or she fails to meet it, IBM swings the stick: they lose part of their bonus and, eventually, their job,” the suit claims.