Source: s3://data.kl3m.ai/documents/govinfo/USCOURTS/USCOURTS-alsd-1_08-cv-00155/USCOURTS-alsd-1_08-cv-00155-29/pdf.json

Nature of Suit Code: 442
Nature of Suit: Civil Rights Employment
Cause of Action: 42:2000 Job Discrimination (Race)

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1 

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT 

FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF ALABAMA 

SOUTHERN DIVISION 

BEVERLY THOMAS, et al., ) 

 Plaintiffs, ) v. ) CIVIL ACTION 08-00155-KD-N 

 ) 

AUSTAL, U.S.A., L.L.C., ) 

 Defendant. ) 

 ORDER 

This matter is before the Court on Defendant’s motion for summary judgment (Docs. 

187, 188, 217), Plaintiff’s Opposition (Doc. 317) and Defendant’s Reply (Doc. 334). 

I. Factual Background

 On March 20, 2008, multiple Plaintiffs initiated this action against Austal for legal and 

equitable relief to redress unlawful discrimination and harassment on the basis of race.1

 (Doc. 

1). Beverly Thomas (“Thomas”) asserts claims for hostile work environment and racial 

discrimination (pay (hourly wages) and promotions) and retaliation (race) under 42 U.S.C. § 

1981 and Title VII; and hostile work environment and gender discrimination (pay (hourly wages) 

and promotions) and retaliation (gender) under Title VII. (Doc. 37 at 142-149; Doc. 317 at 2).2

 1 While initiated as a purported class action, this is no longer a class action case. (Doc. 293). 

Additionally, some of the Plaintiffs allege gender and disability discrimination in addition to asserting 

Title VII claims. Moreover, any and all disparate impact claims against Austal have been dismissed from 

this litigation. (Doc. 366). 

2

 Originally, Thomas alleged a separate claim for denials of training (Doc. 37 at 145-147, 149 at 

¶¶774-776, 780-781, 796). Thomas did not argue this claim (except as noted infra in relation to her 

promotion claim) in response to Austal’s motion and moreover, in her opposition brief now specifically 

represents that he “is pursuing claims against Austal for hostile work environment and racial 

discrimination in regards to pay and promotions, and retaliation under 42 U.S.C. Section 1981 and Title 

VII, and gender discrimination under Title VII.” (Doc. 317 at 2 (emphasis added)). Accordingly, the 

Court construes Thomas’ intentional exclusion of her training claim as a concession of that claim. Thus, 

(Continued) 

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A. Austal

 Defendant Austal USA (“Austal”) is an Australian shipbuilding company dedicated to the 

design and construction of customized aluminum commercial and military vessels, located in 

Mobile, Alabama. (Doc. 188 at 2; Doc. 283-48 at 2-3 (Austal’s 3/7/07 EEOC Position 

Statement)). The Operations Division has four (4) major Departments (Aluminum (divided into 

Fabrication and Components), Electrical, Engineering, and Fit Out (divided into HVAC, 

Insulation and Fit Out)). (Doc. 283-48 at 3-4). 

B. Thomas’ Employment

 Thomas began working for Austal on February 25, 2005 as a Fitter in the Aluminum 

Fabrication Department, at the rate of $12/hour. (Doc. 295 at 37 (Exhibit 105-Sealed); Doc. 217-

1 at 2; Doc. 217-2 at 12 (Decltn. Lindley)). Thomas received six (6) pay raises dated December 

28, 2005 (to $13/hour); March 7, 2006 (to $14.50/hour--“consistent improvement”); May 22, 

2006 (to $17/hour); December 19, 2006 (to $17.50/hour); January 12, 2007 (to $18.50/hour --

 

it is ORDERED that Austal’s motion for summary judgment, as to Thomas’ denials of training claims, is 

GRANTED. 

Further, Austal moved for summary judgment on claims not included in the Third Amended 

Complaint including race claims for evaluations, pay raises, unwarranted counseling and claims that she 

was denied pay raises and was denied training based on her gender (Doc. 188 at 4-5, 19-23, 25-26). 

Similarly, in Opposition Thomas alleges new claims of retaliation which were not included in the Third 

Amended Complaint including blaming her for the noose and termination. In Pleming v. UniversalRundle Corp., 142 F.3d 1354, 1357 (11th Cir. 1998), the Court held that the “parties frame the scope of 

the litigation at the time the complaint is filed.” Moreover, in Davis v. Coca-Cola Bottling Co., Consol., 

516 F.3d 955 (11th Cir. 2008), the court highlighted the difficulty in appellate review of voluminous 

pleadings involving multiple defendants. In so doing it is clear that the 11th Circuit expects the District 

Court to “strip the case down and identify each claim and defense.” Id. at 982. In an effort to do so the 

court must rely on the claims asserted in the Third Amended Complaint. Thus, claims not included in the 

complaint have not been considered and will not be addressed. See Smith v. Books-A-Million, 398 Fed. 

Appx. 437 (11th Cir. 2010) (Claims not included in the complaint were not required to be considered). 

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“continued improvement”); and October 1, 2007 (to $19/hour --“Beverly is a good worker and 

completes all tasks given to her”). (Doc. 217-1 at 4-8, 10; Doc. 295 at 37 (Exhibit 105-Sealed); 

Doc. 217-2 at 12 (Decltn. Lindley)). Thomas was terminated on August 6, 2008, after Austal 

discovered false information on her employment application (criminal history). (Doc. 217-2 at 

12 (Decltn. Lindley); Doc. 217-3 (Dep. Thomas at 125-126, 136); Doc. 334-16 (8/6/08 Letter)). 

II. Standard of Review

 “The court shall grant summary judgment if the movant shows that there is no genuine 

dispute as to any material fact and the movant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.@ FED.

R. CIV. P. 56(a) (Dec. 2010). The recently amended Rule 56(c) provides as follows: 

(1) Supporting Factual Positions. A party asserting that a fact cannot be or is 

genuinely disputed must support the assertion by: 

(A) citing to particular parts of materials in the record, including 

depositions, documents, electronically stored information, affidavits or 

declarations, stipulations (including those made for purposes of the motion only), 

admissions, interrogatory answers, or other materials; or 

(B) showing that the materials cited do not establish the absence or 

presence of a genuine dispute, or that an adverse party cannot produce admissible 

evidence to support the fact. 

(2) Objection That a Fact Is Not Supported by Admissible Evidence. A party 

may object that the material cited to support or dispute a fact cannot be presented 

in a form that would be admissible in evidence. 

(3) Materials Not Cited. The court need consider only the cited materials, but it 

may consider other materials in the record. 

(4) Affidavits or Declarations. An affidavit or declaration used to support or 

oppose a motion must be made on personal knowledge, set out facts that would be 

admissible in evidence, and show that the affiant or declarant is competent to 

testify on the matters stated. 

FED.R.CIV.P. Rule 56(c) (Dec. 2010). Defendant, as the party seeking summary judgment, bears 

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the Ainitial responsibility of informing the district court of the basis for its motion, and 

identifying those portions of >the pleadings, depositions, answers to interrogatories, and 

admissions on file, together with the affidavits, if any,= which it believes demonstrate the absence 

of a genuine issue of material fact.@ Clark v. Coats & Clark, Inc., 929 F.2d 604, 608 (11th Cir. 

1991). (quoting Celotex Corp. v. Catrett, 477 U.S. 317, 323 (1986)). If the nonmoving party 

fails to make Aa sufficient showing on an essential element of her case with respect to which she 

has the burden of proof,@ the moving party is entitled to summary judgment. Celotex, 477 U.S. 

at 323. AIn reviewing whether the nonmoving party has met its burden, the court must stop short 

of weighing the evidence and making credibility determinations of the truth of the matter. 

Instead, the evidence of the non-movant is to be believed, and all justifiable inferences are to be 

drawn in his favor.@ Tipton v. Bergrohr GMBH-Siegen, 965 F.2d 994, 998-999 (11th Cir. 1992), 

cert. den., 507 U.S. 911 (1993) (internal citations and quotations omitted). 

III. Timeliness of Title VII Claims3

 A plaintiff may not sue under Title VII unless she first exhausts administrative remedies 

by filing a timely charge of discrimination with the appropriate agency. See, e.g., Wilkerson v. 

Grinnell Corp., 270 F.3d 1314, 1317 (11th Cir. 2001). “In a non-deferral state such as Alabama, 

the deadline for filing is 180 days after the alleged discriminatory act.” Carter v. University of 

South Alabama Children's & Women's Hosp., 510 F. Supp. 2d 596, 606 (S.D. Ala. 2007). See

also Tipp v. AmSouth Bank, 76 F. Supp. 2d 1315, 1327 (S.D. Ala. 1998). “If the victim of an 

 3 Austal contends, inter alia, that the following claims are untimely: Thomas’ allegations that 

Robert Sheppard did not assign her jobs, improperly denied her raises and improperly wrote her up for 

leaving her post before the lunch bell. (Doc. 188 at 8). However, these claims were not alleged by 

Thomas in the Third Amended Complaint and thus, are not at issue in this case.

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employer's unlawful employment practice does not file a timely complaint, the unlawful practice 

ceases to have legal significance, and the employer is entitled to treat the unlawful practice as if 

it were lawful.” City of Hialeah, Fla. v. Rojas, 311 F.3d 1096, 1102 (11th Cir. 2002). See also

Sheffield v. United Parcel Service, Inc., 2010 WL 4721613, *2 (11th Cir. Nov. 22, 2010) 

(unpublished); Jordan v. City of Montgomery, 2008 WL 2529573, *1 (11th Cir. Jun. 26, 2008) 

(unpublished). A failure to file a timely charge with the EEOC results in a bar of the claims 

contained in the untimely charge. Id. 

 Austal moves for summary judgment on the untimeliness of certain Title VII claims. 

(Doc. 188 at 7-8). Thomas signed her EEOC Charge (for race, sex, retaliation and “continuing 

action”) on December 26, 2006 and it was “received” on an unknown date in December 2006. 

(Doc. 217-3 at 90-92). While the EEOC “Received” Stamp is illegible, apart from December 

2006, the Court construes all factual allegations in the light most favorable to Thomas on 

summary judgment, and thus, will assess the timeliness issue as though the EEOC Charge was 

received as filed on December 26, 2006 (i.e., the earliest date possible). Calculating from 

December 26, 2006, Austal contends that “[a]ll alleged acts” occurring between Thomas’ hire 

date of February 28, 2005 and June 29, 2006 (180 days prior to December 26, 2006) are time 

barred under Title VII. (Doc. 188 at 8). 

 Thomas contends that Austal’s interpretation is incorrect and contrary to well established 

law, as although many acts upon which a plaintiff’s Title VII claims rely may occur outside the 

180 filing period, “they are part of the same actionable hostile environment claim.” (Doc. 317 at 

22 (citing McKenzie v. Citation Corp., LLC, 2007 WL 1424555 (S.D. Ala. 2007)). Thomas is 

correct as it relates to her hostile work environment claim. The U.S. Supreme Court has clarified 

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that there are different standards for claims involving “discrete acts” versus “hostile 

environment” allegations. See generally National R.R. Passenger Corp. v. Morgan, 536 U.S. 101 

(2002). Under the continuing violation doctrine, a plaintiff's charge of discrimination regarding 

a hostile work environment is considered timely if “an act contributing to the claim occurs within 

the filing period,” even if “some of the component acts of the hostile work environment fall 

outside the statutory time period.” Id. at 117. As explained in Smiley v. Alabama Dept. of 

Transp., Slip Copy, 2011 WL 1188506, *5 (M.D. Ala. Mar. 30, 2011): 

Unlike claims involving discrete discriminatory acts, hostile environment claims 

may be litigated so long as at least one of the events contributing to the hostile 

environment was presented to the EEOC in a Charge of Discrimination in a 

timely fashion. Indeed, in Morgan, the United States Supreme Court held that 

“consideration of the entire scope of a hostile work environment claim, including 

behavior alleged outside the statutory time period, is permissible for the purposes 

of assessing liability, so long as an act contributing to that hostile environment 

takes place within the statutory time period.” Morgan, 536 U.S. at 106. 

Thomas’ EEOC Charge alleges not just “at least one of the events” but a variety of “events 

contributing to the hostile work environment” -- sufficient to have placed Austal on notice that 

such a claim (and various incidents tied to same) exists in the litigation so that Austal could have 

investigated the details during discovery. Accordingly, Austal’s motion on the untimeliness of 

these Title VII hostile work environment claims (race and gender) is DENIED. 

Concerning Thomas’ Title VII failure to promote claims (race and gender) – as part of 

the “[a]ll alleged acts” -- the Court finds as follows. Failure to promote claims are “discrete 

acts.” See, e.g., Morgan, 536 U.S. at 114: “Discrete acts such as termination, failure to promote, 

denial of transfer, or refusal to hire are easy to identify. Each incident of discrimination and each 

retaliatory adverse employment decision constitutes a separate actionable “unlawful employment 

practice.” Id. (emphasis added). In Morgan, the U.S. Supreme Court drew a distinction between 

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discrete acts of discrimination and hostile work environment claims, noting that “discrete acts 

such as...failure to promote....are easy to identify. Each incident of discrimination and each 

retaliatory adverse employment decision constitutes a separate actionable unlawful employment 

practice.” Morgan, 536 U.S. at 114. Additionally, the Eleventh Circuit has held that the denial 

of a promotion is a one time violation, the present consequences of which only are felt at the 

present time, and not a continuing violation. See, e.g., Roberts v. Gadsden Memorial Hosp., 835 

F.2d 793 (11th Cir. 1988), modified, 850 F.2d 1549 (11th Cir. 1988) and Price v. M & H Valve 

Co., 177 Fed. Appx. 1 (11th Cir. Apr. 7, 2006) (unpublished)). 

 Thomas asserts that Caucasian co-workers Jason Clark, “Preston,” Bryce Goram, 

William Weaver and Chuck Villagran were promoted over her; she was denied a supervisor 

promotion on December 21, 2006; and she was denied a supervisor position some time after May 

2008. (Doc. 317 at 13-16; Doc. 217-3 (Dep. Thomas at 312, 314-316)). At the outset, there is 

no information as to “Preston” including even his last name and thus, the record is insufficient to 

determine the timeliness of this promotion claim. Additionally, Thomas’ purported denial of a 

supervisor position on December 21, 2006 occurred before she signed her EEOC Charge and 

thus is timely as within the 180 day time frame. Moreover, the denial of a supervisor position 

some time after May 2008 would not be untimely as it occurred after Thomas signed her 

December 26, 2006 EEOC Charge. Further, as to Jason Clark, Bryce Goram, William Weaver 

and Chuck Villagran, the Court finds as follows. Thomas alleges in the Third Amended 

Complaint that she asked to be trained as a supervisor in August 2006 but that instead, Bryce 

Goram was trained to be a supervisor (Doc. 37 at 146 at ¶780). As alleged, this failure to 

promote claim appears to have occurred in August 2006, which would be within the 180 day 

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time frame. If so, the claim would be timely. However, as to Thomas’ failure to promote claims 

regarding William Weaver, Chuck Villagran and Jason Clark, the parties have submitted no 

evidence as to precisely when these promotions occurred so the Court cannot discern whether 

they are timely; and the same holds true for the Goram promotion (if not actually occurring in 

August 2006). Thus, Austal’s motion for summary judgment, on the untimeliness of Thomas’ 

Title VII failure to promote claims, is DENIED. 

 With regard to Thomas’ disparate pay claims (race and gender), Thomas alleges that she 

“continually received lower wages than less experienced Caucasian employees.” (Doc. 37 at 147 

at ¶788). Thus, the claim is framed by Thomas as a discriminatory compensation decision claim 

(i.e., paychecks received as a periodic implementation of a previously made discriminatory 

employment decision).4

 As such, Austal’s motion for summary judgment on these Title VII pay 

claims, based on untimeliness, is DENIED.

IV. Austal’s Reply 

 Austal asserts new arguments in its Reply concerning the timeliness of additional Title 

VII claims and for other Section 1981 claims. (Doc. 334 at 2-3). The Court will not consider 

these “new” claims. Austal cannot assert new allegations or arguments raised for the first time 

on Reply. As set forth recently in New Hampshire Ins. Co. v. Wiregrass Const. Co., Slip Copy, 

2011 WL 206191, *2 at note 2 (S.D. Ala. Jan. 20, 2011): 

 4 As set forth in 29 U.S.C.A. § 626(d)(3): “....an unlawful practice occurs, with respect to 

discrimination in compensation in violation of this Act, when a discriminatory compensation decision or 

other practice is adopted, when a person becomes subject to a discriminatory compensation decision or 

other practice, or when a person is affected by application of a discriminatory compensation decision or 

other practice, including each time wages, benefits, or other compensation is paid, resulting in whole or in 

part from such a decision or other practice.”

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See Park City Water Authority v. North Fork Apartments, L.P., 2009 WL 

4898354 at *1 n. 2 (S.D.Ala.2009) (citing cases from over 40 districts applying 

the rule in 2009 alone). The Eleventh Circuit follows a similar rule. E.g., Herring 

v. Secretary, Department of Corrections, 397 F.3d 1338, 1342 (11th Cir.2005) 

(“As we have repeatedly admonished, arguments raised for the first time in a 

reply brief are not properly before a reviewing court.”) (internal quotes omitted). 

The Court has identified some of the reasons supporting the rule. “In order to 

avoid a scenario in which endless sur-reply briefs are filed, or the Court is forced 

to perform a litigant's research for it on a key legal issue because that party has 

not had an opportunity to be heard, or a movant is incentivized to save his best 

arguments for his reply brief so as to secure a tactical advantage based on the 

nonmovant's lack of opportunity to rebut them, this Court does not consider 

arguments raised for the first time in a reply brief.” Hardy v. Jim Walter Homes, 

Inc., 2008 WL 906455 at *8 (S.D.Ala.2008). 

In sum, because Austal failed to raise these arguments in its motion for summary judgment, they 

are impermissible and will not be considered. See also e.g., Abrams v. Ciba Specialty Chemicals 

Corp., 663 F. Supp. 2d 1220, 1232 at note 16 (S.D. Ala. 2009) (providing that “new arguments 

are impermissible in reply briefs”); Evans v. Infirmary Health Services, Inc., 634 F. Supp. 2d 

1276, 1285 at note 14 (S.D. Ala. 2009) (instructing that “this Court's general practice is not to 

consider new arguments raised in a reply brief”). 

V. Section 1981/Title VII – Hostile Work Environment

Racial or sexual harassment is actionable under Section 1981 or Title VII where the 

conduct is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of employment and create an 

abusive working environment. See, e.g., Freeman v. City of Riverdale, 330 Fed. Appx. 863, 865 

(11th Cir. 2009) (unpublished).5

 To establish a prima facie case of hostile work environment 

and/or racial or sexual harassment under Section 1981 or Title VII, the plaintiff must prove that: 

 5

 This is an unpublished decision and is persuasive, but not binding, authority pursuant to 

Eleventh Circuit Rule 36-2. The Court notes this same rule applies to other Fed. Appx. cases cited herein.

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1) she belongs to a protected group; 2) she has been subject to unwelcome (racial or sexual) 

harassment; 3) the harassment was based on a protected characteristic of the employee (such as 

race or gender); 4) the harassment was sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the terms and 

conditions of employment and create a discriminatorily abusive working environment; and 5) the 

employer is responsible for such environment under a theory of vicarious or direct liability. See, 

e.g., Reeves v. DSI Sec. Servs., Inc., 395 Fed. Appx. 544, 545-546 (11th Cir. 2010) 

(unpublished); McCann v. Tillman, 526 F.3d 1370, 1378 (11th Cir. 2008); Miller v. Kenworth of 

Dothan, Inc., 277 F.3d 1269, 1275 (11th Cir. 2002); Johnson v. Booker T. Washington Broad. 

Serv., Inc., 234 F.3d 501, 508 (11th Cir. 2000). See also e.g., Mendoza v. Borden, Inc., 195 F.3d 

1238, 1245 (11th Cir. 1999); Baldwin v. Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Ala., 480 F.3d 1287, 1300 

(11th Cir. 2007); Hulsey v. Pride Restaurants, LLC, 367 F.3d 1238, 1245 (11th Cir. 2004). 

 Moreover, to state an actionable Title VII case, plaintiff must establish that the alleged 

conduct was based on her sex. See, e.g., Blue Cross/Blue Shield, 480 F.2d 1287. A[T]here may 

be cases when a supervisor makes sexual overtures to workers of both sexes or where the 

conduct complained of is equally offensive to male and female workers[] . . . .[i]n such cases, the 

sexual harassment would not be based upon sex because men and women are accorded like 

treatment.@ Henson v. City of Dundee, 682 F.2d 897, 904 (11th Cir. 1982). See also Fitzpatrick 

v. Winn-Dixie Montgomery, Inc., 153 F. Supp. 2d 1303, 1305-1306 (M.D. Ala. 2001). 

Austal contends that: 1) Thomas’ evidence of sporadic and isolated incidents of 

comments and/or conduct during the time she was employed do not meet the severe or pervasive 

threshold; 2) Thomas makes no allegations and presents no evidence that the allegedly hostile 

environment unreasonably interfered with her ability to work on a day-to-day basis; 3) Austal 

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maintained a policy establishing how an employee should report discriminatory conduct, but 

Thomas failed to report certain conduct; and 4) Austal took reasonable preventative and 

corrective/remedial measures to prevent a hostile work environment. 

To be actionable as severe or pervasive, the harassment “must result in both an 

environment that a reasonable person would find hostile or abusive and an environment that the 

victim subjectively perceive[s]...to be abusive.” Miller, 277 F.3d at 1276 (internal citation and 

quotation marks omitted). In other words, the severe or pervasive element has an objective and 

subjective component. McCann, 526 F.3d at 1378. To determine the objective severity of the 

harassment, courts look at the totality of the circumstances and consider: 1) the frequency of the 

discriminatory conduct; 2) the severity of the conduct; 3) whether the conduct is physically 

threatening or humiliating, or a mere offensive utterance; and 4) whether the conduct 

unreasonably interferes with an employee's job performance. Reeves, 395 Fed. Appx. at 546. 

See also Faragher v. City of Boca Raton, 524 U.S. 775, 787-788 (1998); Allen v. Tyson Foods, 

121 F.3d 642, 647 (11th Cir. 1997) (citing Harris v. Forklift Sys., Inc., 510 U.S. 17, 23 (1993)). 

“The conduct is considered cumulatively instead of in isolation.” Reeves, 395 Fed. Appx. at 

546. 

After consideration of the evidence presented by Thomas, the Court finds that there is 

sufficient evidence, if believed by a jury, that Thomas subjectively perceived her work 

environment to be racially hostile. Moreover, the Court finds when viewing the facts in the light 

most favorable to Thomas, that there is an issue of fact whether the harassment was severe and 

pervasive. The Court also finds that there are issues of fact remaining as to whether Austal is 

responsible for the alleged hostile environment. Accordingly, summary judgment is DENIED

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on this claim. 

VI. Title VII/Section 1981 – Disparate Treatment (Race & Gender)

 Thomas contends that she was intentionally discriminated against with respect to "terms 

and conditions of her employment" because of her race and gender in violation of Title VII and 

Section 1981. Specifically, Thomas asserts that based on her race and gender: 1) she 

“continually received lower wages than less experienced Caucasian employees[]” (Doc. 37 at 

147 at ¶788); and 2) Caucasian co-workers Jason Clark, “Preston,” Bryce Goram, William 

Weaver and Chuck Villagran were promoted over her, she was denied a supervisor promotion on 

December 21, 2006 and was denied a supervisor position some time after May 2008 (Doc. 317 at 

13-16; Doc. 217-3 (Dep. Thomas at 312, 314-316)). 

 In individual disparate treatment claims, “the plaintiff bears the burden of proving that 

the employer discriminated against him because of his race.” Cooper v. Southern Co., 390 F.3d 

695, 723 (11th Cir. 2004), overruled on other grounds, Ash v. Tyson Foods, Inc., 546 U.S. 454, 

456-457 (2006). See also Reeves v. Sanderson Plumbing Prods., Inc., 530 U.S. 133, 143 (2000); 

Texas Dep't of Cmty. Affairs v. Burdine, 450 U.S. 248 (1981). Where there is no direct evidence 

of discrimination or a statistical pattern of discrimination, the burden shifting analysis of 

McDonnell Douglas Corp. v. Green, 411 U.S. 792 (1973) applies. Under this framework, the 

plaintiff must establish a prima facie case of intentional race discrimination.6

 Id. at 802. See also

e.g., E.E.O.C. v. Joe’s Stone Crabs, Inc., 296 F.3d 1265, 1272 (11th Cir. 2002). If a prima facie 

case is established, the burden shifts to the employer to articulate a legitimate, nondiscriminatory 

 6 "Claims of race discrimination under § 1981 are analyzed in the same manner as claims brought 

under Title VII." DeLeon v. ST Mobile Aerospace Eng’g, Inc., 2010 WL 500446, *15 (S.D. Ala. Feb. 9, 

2010).

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reason for its actions. Id. Once the employer satisfies its burden, the burden shifts back to the 

plaintiff to offer evidence that the alleged reason of the employer is a pretext for unlawful 

discrimination. Id. at 1272-1273. 

 A. Pay (Race & Gender)7

In order to establish a prima facie case of disparate pay, Thomas must establish that she 

held a position “similar to that of a higher paid employee who is not a member of [his] protected 

class.” Crawford v. Carroll, 529 F.3d 961, 974-975 (11th Cir. 2008) (citing Meeks v. Computer 

Assocs. Int'l, 15 F.3d 1013, 1019 (11th Cir. 1994)). The employee whom the plaintiff identifies 

as a comparator “must be similarly situated in all relevant respects.” Wilson v. B/E Aerospace, 

Inc., 376 F.3d 1079, 1091 (11th Cir. 2004). See also e.g., Drake-Sims v. Burlington Coat Factory 

Warehouse of Ala., Inc., 330 Fed. Appx. 795, 803 (11th Cir. 2009) (unpublished). It is necessary 

that a comparator must be “nearly identical” to the plaintiff “to prevent courts from secondguessing a reasonable decision by the employer.” Wilson, 376 F.3d at 1091. See also e.g., Head 

v. Pitts Enterp., Inc., Slip Copy, 2010 WL 2773376, *13 (M.D. Ala. Jul. 14, 2010); Drake-Sims, 

380 Fed. Appx. at 803; Sylva-Kalonji v. Board of School Comm’rs of Mobile Cty., 2009 WL 

1418808, *5-6 (S.D. Ala. May 20, 2009); Hill v. Emory Univ., 346 Fed. Appx. 390, 395 (11th

Cir. 2009); Beard v. 84 Lumber Co., 206 Fed. Appx. 852, 857 (11th Cir. 2006) (finding the 

plaintiff and a proposed comparator had different numbers of years of experiences such that they 

were not similarly situated in all relevant respects). 

 Thomas asserts that she was paid less than similarly situated Caucasian employees due to 

 7 While Thomas alleges on summary judgment that she was also denied specific pay raises, no 

pay raise claims are alleged in the Third Amended Complaint and thus, pay raise claims are not at issue 

on summary judgment.

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her race and gender: “Plaintiff has continued to be unlawfully discriminated against based on her 

sex and race by Austal USA. She has continually received lower wages than less experienced 

Caucasian employees.” (Doc. 37 at 147 at ¶788). Specifically, Thomas alleges that she was paid 

less per hour than Jeremy Guy, “Bobby” (LNU), “Preston” (LNU), Jason Clark, Chuck 

Villagran, Bryce Goram, Joseph Adams, Donald Slover, Jared Kerr and Kevin Lewis. 

 Austal contends that Thomas cannot establish a prima facie case of race discrimination 

because in each instance where Thomas has attempted to identify a comparator, she has either 

failed to submit information to sufficiently identify the employee or failed to demonstrate that 

the employee is similarly situated in all respects. 

Thomas does not submit any evidence or argument regarding subjective similarity of the 

comparators, such as experience, education, previous salary, or salary demand. Rather, Thomas 

relies on Miranda v. B&B Cash Grocery Store, Inc., 975 F.2d 1518, 1529 (11th Cir. 1992) 

(finding that the plaintiff established a prima facie case of sex discrimination under Title VII by 

demonstrating that she is female and that the job she occupied was similar to higher paying jobs 

occupied by males) and Mulhall v. Advance Sec., Inc., 19 F.3d 586 (11th Cir. 1994). Based on 

these cases, Thomas then contends that she has met her burden of producing evidence of a 

similarly situated comparator “through evidence that job titles are the same or that plaintiff 

performed the same types of tasks [and job duties] as his/her comparator.” (Doc. 317 at 37-38). 

However, as the Eleventh Circuit has counseled “[t]he methods of presenting a prima 

facie case are not fixed; they are flexible and depend to a large degree upon the employment 

situation.” Wilson, 376 F.3d at 1087. In more recent Eleventh Circuit precedent, we have seen 

the application of this flexibility. Specifically, the Court has pointed to the absence of relevant 

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similarities amongst comparators, outside of job similarity, and held that plaintiff failed to meet 

his/her prima facie case. For example, in Cooper, 390 F.3d 695, the Court determined that the 

comparators for purpose of a disparate pay claim were not appropriate, i.e. similarly situated, 

when the plaintiff did not establish: 1) “that the proposed comparators had similar levels of 

experience or education” id. at 745; 2) “similar levels of seniority” id. at 743; and 3) similar 

disciplinary records, id. at 741. 

 When the Eleventh Circuit has reached beyond job similarities in its similarly situated 

analyses, unrebutted evidence was in the record to show that there existed a relevant factor (e.g., 

experience, education, starting pay demand) which rendered the comparators dissimilar. For 

example, in Mack v. ST Mobile Aerospace Eng., Inc., 195 Fed. Appx. 829 (11th Cir. 2006) 

(unpublished), the court stated “[w]e affirm the court's entry of summary judgment as to this 

claim because MAE produced uncontroverted evidence that Frye and Wicks were paid more than 

Mack because each had specialized experience and training in aeronautics and avionics, while 

Mack had only general electronic training. Consequently, Mack failed to show that they were 

‘similarly situated in all relevant respects.’” Id. at 843. Thus, although the burden of production 

at the prima facie stage does not shift to the defendant to produce any evidence, the failure of the 

defendant to point to other traits that are “relevant” to the particular employment situation 

dictates that the Court should look strictly to job similarities. Therefore, the Court will first 

examine the record to determine if Thomas has submitted evidence of basic job similarities, and 

if so, whether there is evidence that the comparators are dissimilar in other relevant respects. 

 As detailed supra, Thomas was hired on February 25, 2005 as a Fitter in the Aluminum 

Fabrication Department, at the rate of $12/hour. Thomas received six (6) pay raises dated 

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December 28, 2005 (to $13/hour); March 7, 2006 (to $14.50/hour--“consistent improvement”); 

May 22, 2006 (to $17/hour); December 19, 2006 (to $17.50/hour); January 12, 2007 (to 

$18.50/hour --“continued improvement”); and October 1, 2007 (to $19/hour --“Beverly is a good 

worker and completes all tasks given to her”). (Doc. 217-1 at 4-8, 10; Doc. 295 at 37 (Exhibit 

105-Sealed); Doc. 217-2 at 12 (Decltn. Lindley)). Thomas was terminated on August 6, 2008 for 

not accurately reporting information, concerning a criminal conviction, in her employment 

application. (Doc. 217-2 at 12 (Decltn. Lindley); Doc. 217-3 (Dep. Thomas at 125-126, 136); 

Doc. 334-16 (8/6/08 Letter)). 

 At the outset, concerning “Bobby” (LNU) and “Preston” (LNU), Thomas has failed to 

provide any information regarding these proposed comparators to support her disparate pay 

claim including even their last names. In fact, there is no evidence that either Bobby or Preston 

are outside of Thomas’ protected class (race or gender). Concerning proposed comparators 

Jeremy Guy and Jason Clark, they held different positions than Thomas, who was a fitter. 

Specifically, Guy was a welder and Clark was a fabricator. (Doc. 334-6 at 3 (Decltn. Dr. 

Steward); Doc. 334-6 at 6). Additionally, the evidence reveals that Chuck Villagran was not paid 

more than Thomas during his employment and moreover, he was hired as a welder (not a fitter); 

thus, Villagran is not a proper comparator. (Doc. 334-6 at 4 (Decltn. Dr. Steward); Doc. 334-6 at 

6). Moreover, the record reveals that Joseph Adams made $15/hour as of January 2007, which 

was actually $3.50/hour less than Thomas, and he was hired as a Trades Assistant (not a fitter). 

(Id.) Moreover, as for Bryce Goram, Jared Kerr and Donald Slover, the only position indicated 

by the evidence in connection with their employment, is the position of Supervisor in the 

Fabrication Department. (Doc. 295 at 14, 20, 34 (Exhibit 105-Sealed)). While there is no 

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evidence indicating what position either Kerr or Goram were initially hired as at Austal, they 

both applied to be welders, not fitters like Thomas. (Doc. 334-9 at 11, 16). Thomas has not 

presented any evidence of record indicating that either Kerr or Goram were hired as fitters. 

Further, while there is no evidence indicating what position Slover was initially hired as at 

Austal, he did apply to be a Fitter. (Doc. 334-9 at 24). Slover was hired on February 28, 2005. 

(Doc. 295 at 34 (Exhibit 105-Sealed)). Even assuming that Slover was hired as a fitter, he was 

hired at an unknown starting hourly rate. Thomas has submitted no admissible evidence as to 

Slover’s starting rate (i.e., that he was hired as a Fitter in the Fabrication Department at 

$13.50/hour as she claims (Doc. 317 at 12 at note 10)). 

 As such, Austal’s motion for summary judgment as to Thomas’ claim for disparate pay, 

based on proposed comparators Bobby,” “Preston,” Clark, Guy, Villagran, Adams, Goram, Kerr 

and Slover, is GRANTED. 

 Concerning Lewis, the only position indicated from the evidence, in connection with his 

employment, is the position of LCS Foreman in the Fabrication Department. (Doc. 295 at 22 

(Exhibit 105-Sealed)). Lewis was hired on June 27, 2005. (Id.) Lewis applied for any “open” 

position. (Doc. 334-9 at 20). A notation on Lewis’ employment application indicates that he was 

hired at $15.25/hour. (Doc. 334-9 at 23). Austal does not dispute the assertion that he was hired 

as a fitter. As such, Lewis would have been hired approximately four (4) months after Thomas 

at a rate which was $3.25/hour more than Thomas for the same position. The record reveals 

further, that Thomas received a $1 raise to $13/hour on December 28, 2005; and that Lewis 

received no raises in 2005. (Doc. 295 at 22, 37 (Exhibit 105-Sealed)). By the end of February 

2006, Thomas had not received any additional raises and was still earning $13/hour, whereas 

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Lewis had received two raises to $17.50/hour and $20.50/hour (combined a $5.25 raise). (Id.) 

On March 7, 2006, Thomas received a $1.50 raise to $14.50/hour. (Id.) As of the end of May 

2006, both Thomas and Lewis again received raises: Lewis, a $2.50 raise, to $23/hour; and 

Thomas, a $2.50 raise, to $17/hour. (Id.) While Thomas continued to receive raises (January 12, 

2007 to $18.50/hour and October 1, 2007 to $19/hour), there is no evidence indicating that Lewis 

received any additional raises after May 2006. (Id.) In sum, even after more than 21⁄2 years of 

employment, Thomas still earned $5/hour less than Lewis. It appears then, that Lewis received 

pay raises more frequently, and in higher amounts, than Thomas. 

 Given the foregoing, the Court turns to whether Thomas and Lewis were similar in other 

relevant respects (i.e., work experience and training). According to Austal’s Manager of the 

Fabrication Department Harley Combs, Lewis “was more educated and more experienced” than 

Thomas. (Doc. 334-9 at 4 (Decltn. Combs at ¶9)). According to Combs, Lewis had an industrial 

electrician degree from Faulkner AVC; had prior supervisor experience and could read blueprints 

and drawings. (Id.) Combs notes that at the time he was hired, Lewis had seven (7) years 

experience in sheet metal fabrication and modifications with Mobile Aerospace Engineering, 

where he was leading a 10-35 man crew and earning $15.05/hour. (Id.) See also Doc. 334-9 at 

20-23 (Lewis’ Employment Application)). In contrast, according to Combs, Thomas had most 

recently worked four years earlier for a construction company where she “put up moulding,” and 

had 18 months of fitter experience at Bender shipyard five (5) years before she applied at Austal. 

(Doc. 334-9 at 3 (Decltn. Combs at ¶6)). Thomas’ employment application reveals that she had 

completed two (2) years of college at “NYC” in New York; she could operate saws and a jig and 

had her own tools; she was employed by B.T Express Clearing & Construction, Co. as a lead 

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man in 1999; she worked at Bender shipyard for 20 months as a shipfitter/welder from 2000-

2001; she worked at J&J Construction in metal studding and pulling up moulding for 

approximately 11⁄2 years from 1999-2001; and she had worked for 6 months as a scaffold builder 

for Hoffman Marine in 1999. (Doc. 334-9 at 8-9). 

 Given the foregoing, the Court finds there is an issue of fact as to whether Thomas’ lower 

wage was based on race and/or gender discrimination. As such, Austal’s motion for summary 

judgment is DENIED on this claim. 

 B. Promotion (Race & Gender)

To establish a prima facie case of failure to promote, Thomas must show that: 1) she is a 

member of a protected class; 2) who sought and was qualified for positions that the employer 

was attempting to fill; 3) despite her qualifications he was rejected; and 4) the employer either 

continued to attempt to fill the positions or in fact filled the positions with persons outside the 

plaintiff’s protected class. See, e.g., Harrington v. Disney Regional Ent., Inc., 276 Fed. Appx. 

863, 872 (11th Cir. 2007) (citing Crawford v. Western Electric Co., Inc., 614 F.2d 1300, 1315 

(5th Cir. 1980)). A plaintiff claiming that he was discriminatorily denied a promotion usually 

must show that he actually applied for the position as part of his prima facie case. Taylor v. 

Runyon, 175 F.3d 861, 866 (11th Cir. 1999); Combs v. Plantation Patterns, 106 F.3d 1519, 1539 

at n. 11 (11th Cir. 1997). Where an employer has an informal promotion procedure (i.e., job 

openings are not posted or applications are not required), however, an employee may establish 

this element by showing that the position was available and that the employer had some reason 

or duty to consider him for same. Jones v. Firestone Tire and Rubber Co., Inc., 977 F.2d 527, 

533 (11th Cir. 1992); Carmichael v. Birmingham Saw Works, 738 F.2d 1126, 1133-1134 (11th

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Cir. 1984). 

 Thomas asserts that Caucasian co-workers Jason Clark, “Preston,”8

 Bryce Goram,9

William Weaver10 and Chuck Villagran11 were promoted over her; that she was denied a 

supervisor promotion on December 21, 2006; and that she was denied a supervisor position some 

time after May 2008. (Doc. 317 at 13-16; Doc. 217-3 (Dep. Thomas at 312, 314-316)).12 

 8 Thomas testified that “Preston” worked at Austal and within six (6) months became a 

supervisor; “[h]e worked under me. I taught him. The next thing you know, he was a supervisor. Didn’t 

know shit when he was under me and didn’t do nothing when he was after me.” (Doc. 217-3 (Dep. 

Thomas at 312)). He “came from a restaurant[.]” (Doc. 285-25 (Dep. Thomas at 315)). 

9 Thomas testified that he was 19 years old and he “came in trying to show folks what to do, 

which he didn’t’ know what he was doing. Eventually he did. I can’t take from him, eventually he 

learned....but he came in because they wanted to make him a supervisor, you know.” (Doc. 285-25 (Dep. 

Thomas at 195-196, 198)). 

10 Thomas testified that he was an “excellent welder, excellent. I couldn’t take that from him. 

Fitting, he never knew nothing about. Most supervisors or lead person that take over the position of a 

crew...have knowledge of..welding and fitting.” (Doc. 285-25 (Dep. Thomas at 210-211)). One day, 

Thomas’ supervisor Robinson pulled her aside and said “I’m sorry, but we going to have to take the lead 

position from you and give it to William Weaver, but we want you to continue to show everybody what to 

do...no explanation, no anything...When they took it from me, they gave him..his white hat, his radio, 

and his raise....I eventually went on..left his crew....I was angry. I went and I complained to him...to 

human resources....to Scott Pearson...to all of them, and nothing was done.” (Id. (Dep. Thomas at 211-

212, 224-225)). “Mr. Weaver didn’t’ know how to do nothing...he was an excellent welder. But a 

supervisor, we build ships...didn’t nobody know what to do...I...figured it out and did it myself...” (Id. 

(Dep. Thomas at 226)). 

11 Thomas testified that “he didn’t know nothing...he didn’t know how to read a blueprint...to 

put up a..simple gusset. Measure...All he knew how to do was sweep...” (Doc. 285-25 (Dep. Thomas at 

233)). When Thomas was moved to work under Supervisor Ron Moore, “all the supervisors...most of 

the supervisors on the ship knew my skills and ability. As soon as I got with him, he gave Chuck the lead 

man position. He came to me....I couldn’t give it to you because you just came on my crew. I was like, 

that’s fine. I understand that.” (Id. (Dep. Thomas at 236)). Thomas “started taking over the crew...little 

by little because Chuck really didn’t know that much...eventually...I became...Ron’s lead person.” (Id. 

(Dep. Thomas at 236-237)).

12 In so doing, Thomas summarily adopts and incorporates “the arguments and evidentiary 

citations” contained on pages 31-34 of Plaintiff George Wells’ opposition to summary judgment. (Doc. 

317 at 39 at note 37). There is no basis for such “adoption and incorporation,” particularly given that 

each plaintiff’s evidence is considered in isolation. Further, even if the Court permitted same, the pages 

(Continued) 

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 Austal contends that Thomas is unable to establish a case of discrimination because she 

has failed to provide any evidence concerning her proposed comparators. Austal explains that 

Thomas has failed to identify Caucasian employees who are “nearly identical” in all relevant 

respects including experience, background, and disciplinary history. 

 As to the prima facie case, Austal conflates the prima facie requirements of a 

discriminatory pay claim with those for a failure to promote claim. Similarly situated 

comparators are not necessary to establish a prima facie claim of failure to promote, rather 

plaintiff must only show that the position was filled with a person outside his protected class. 

See Harrington v. Disney Regional Ent., Inc., 276 Fed. Appx. 863, 872-873 (11th Cir. 2007) 

(providing that “[t]he elements are different for disparate pay and promotion claims...”). 

 The Court finds that Thomas has established a prima facie case for the proposed 

comparators and for the promotions at issue, except for “Preston” as there is no evidence of 

record relating to him – particularly whether he is even outside of her protected class. However, 

Austal has articulated a legitimate non-discriminatory reasons for promoting Clark, Goram, 

Weaver and Villagran to supervisory positions over Thomas: Thomas lacked the same 

qualifications and “cannot show that she was qualified for the job.” As support, Austal relies 

upon the Declaration of Manager Harley Combs which reveals as follows: Clark had “significant 

experience”–namely, 10 years of construction and fabrication experience erecting steel buildings 

(Doc. 334-9 at 5 (Decltn. Combs)); Goram had more experience, as when he applied he had 11⁄2 

years of steel welding experience, and once hired, was given responsibility “for a small project,” 

 

referenced and relied upon by Thomas actually relate to disparate pay, not failure to promote and thus, are 

irrelevant to the promotion claim.

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was promoted to supervisor in 2006, and later was promoted to foreman (Id. at 3 (Decltn. 

Combs)); Weaver had “extensive prior experience” that Thomas lacked, with 8 years of welding 

experience at Northrop Grumman and “was one of the most experienced welders[]” and had 

completed 2 years of training at Jefferson Davis Community College (Id. at 4-5 (Decltn. 

Combs)); and Villagran was attending aluminum welding school when hired and had prior 

experience as a team leader and thus “had more leadership experience[]” (Id. at 4 (Decltn. 

Combs)). 

 Thomas’ Employment Application reveals that when she applied at Austal in 2005, she 

had 20 months of experience at Bender’s shipyard (as a ship fitter/welder) and other shipyard 

and construction experience (metal studding and pulling apart molding and working as a scaffold 

builder since February 1999), as well as had a high school degree and had attended two (2) years 

of college at New York College. (Doc. 217-8 at 3-4). Thomas’s prior job was also working as a 

lead man for a construction company (since September 1999). (Id. at 4). 

 Given Thomas’ work experience and repeated requests for supervisory positions, as well 

as actual experience leading crews at Austal, the Court finds that there is an issue of fact as to 

whether the decision not to promote Thomas was based on gender and/or race discrimination. 

As such, Austal’s motion as to these comparators for failure to promote is DENIED.

 Regarding Thomas’ requests for supervisory positions in December 21, 2006 (Doc. 317 

at 16), in May 2008 to supervise a library (Id. at 17) and “at numerous other times during her 

employment,” the Court finds as follows. First, as to the December 21, 2006 promotion (Doc. 

285-25 (Dep. Thomas at 371-375)), Thomas has not submitted evidence that the employee hired 

for this promotion was outside of her protected class, or even identified who filled this position. 

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Thomas then, has not established her prima facie case as to this promotion. As such, Austal’s 

motion for summary judgment as to the December 21, 2006 promotion is GRANTED. 

 Second, as to the May 2008 promotion, Thomas testified that she applied to be a 

supervisor for a “little library” at Austal, but was denied, “[b]ut at that time I didn’t get a reason. 

It wasn’t my attitude, it wasn’t my skills and ability, they just didn’t give it to me.” (Doc. 217-3 

(Dep. Thomas at 284)). Thomas has not submitted evidence that the employee hired for this 

promotion was outside of her protected class, or even identified who filled this position. Rather, 

Thomas then, has not established her prima facie case as to this promotion. As such, Austal’s 

motion for summary judgment as to the May 2008 promotion is GRANTED. 

 Thomas also testified that some time after May 1, 2008, Austal posted a supervisor 

position and for this posting, Austal made every Caucasian supervisor who had received their 

position without applying for it, reapply for their jobs. (Doc. 185-25 (Dep. Thomas at 284-286)). 

Thomas was interviewed for the supervisor position but did not receive it, but claims that all of 

the less qualified Caucasian males were rehired into their positions and that even though she was 

as qualified or more qualified than these Caucasian males, she was not given a reason as to why 

she was denied the promotion. (Id. (Dep. Thomas at 284, 286, 301)). However, some time later, 

Matt Farringdon told Thomas that she had not been promoted because the Caucasian males did 

not like the way she spoke to them. (Id. (Dep. Thomas at 379-380)). 

 The Court finds that there is an issue of fact regarding whether the failure to promote 

Thomas at this point was based on race and/or gender discrimination such that Austal’s motion 

for summary judgment is DENIED. 

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VII. Retaliation

Thomas’ retaliation claims, as alleged in the Third Amended Complaint, consist of the 

following specific allegations: 

After complaining about the racially and sexually discriminatory conduct, graffiti 

and epithets, B. Thomas was retaliated against in the terms and conditions of her 

employment, including having her supervisory “fill-in” status taken away. 

Furthermore, Defendant has continued to retaliate against B. Thomas by refusing 

to provide her any compensation despite the recommendation of her doctor, a 

doctor chosen by Austal USA, to take time off from work to recover from the 

emotional harm caused by the incident of seeing the noose hanging from the 

break room on May 21, 2008, as well as other racial and sexual harassment 

experienced on a continued and repeated basis by B.Thomas and other AfricanAmerican employees of Defendant. 

* * * 

Thomas has been subjected to further retaliation by Austal USA through 

allegations of alleged time theft. In addition, Thomas has been threatened with 

arrest by Austal USA management in connection with the alleged time theft. 

Furthermore, despite numerous attempts by Thomas, she has continued to be 

retaliated against by being denied any of her wages Austal USA withheld, 

although properly due to her, after these allegations of time theft were determined 

to be completely unwarranted. 

(Doc. 37 at 144-145 at ¶¶770, 772, 773). 

 To establish a prima facie case of retaliation, a plaintiff must prove that: 1) she engaged 

in statutorily protected activity; 2) she suffered a materially adverse action; and 3) there was a 

causal connection13 between the protected activity and the materially adverse action.14 Goldsmith 

 

13 To establish a causal connection, a plaintiff must show that the decision maker was aware of the 

protected conduct at the time of the adverse action. See, e.g., Goldsmith, 513 F.3d at 1278; Brungart v. 

BellSouth Telecomms., Inc., 231 F.3d 791, 799 (11th Cir. 2000); Higdon v. Jackson, 393 F.3d 1211, 1220 

(11th Cir. 2004). 

14 An action that “well might have dissuaded a reasonable worker from making or supporting a charge of 

discrimination.” Burlington Northern, 548 U.S. at 68 (quotation omitted). 

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v. Bagby Elevator Co., 513 F.3d 1261, 1277 (11th Cir. 2008) (citing Burlington Northern & Santa 

Fe Ry. Co. v. White, 548 U.S. 53 (2006)); Nichols v. CSG Sys., Inc., 245 Fed. Appx. 937, 940 

(11th Cir. 2007); Drago v. Jenne, 453 F.3d 1301, 1305 (11th Cir. 2006). 

 The Court finds that there is an issue of fact regarding whether Austal retaliated against 

Thomas such that Austal’s motion for summary judgment on this claim is DENIED.

VIII. Punitive Damages

 Thomas seeks an award of punitive damages against Austal. Upon consideration, the 

Court finds that resolution of the punitive damages issue is a matter better suited for trial. Thus, 

it is ORDERED that Austal’s motion for summary judgment regarding Thomas’ punitive 

damages claim is DENIED as her request for punitive damages is CARRIED TO TRIAL. 

IX. Conclusion

 Accordingly, it is ORDERED that Austal’s motion for summary judgment is DENIED 

as to Thomas’ hostile work environment claims; DENIED in part and GRANTED in part as to 

Thomas’ failure to promote claims; GRANTED as to Thomas’ training claims; DENIED in 

part and GRANTED in part as to Thomas’ disparate pay claims; and DENIED as to Thomas’ 

retaliation claims. Thomas’ punitive damages request is CARRIED TO TRIAL. 

DONE and ORDERED this the 7th day of November 2011. 

 /s/ Kristi K. DuBose 

 KRISTI K. DuBOSE 

 UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE 

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