Allegations of repeated racial discrimination and retaliation have been brought forward in a federal lawsuit against a major fashion retailer, raising questions about workplace conduct and corporate accountability under state and federal law. The complaint was filed by Monet Gray on March 4, 2026, in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against her former employer, Valentino U.S.A., Inc.
According to the court filing prepared by Joseph & Norinsberg, LLC, Gray alleges that she endured persistent racial discrimination during her employment with Valentino U.S.A., Inc., culminating in what she describes as a hostile work environment and constructive discharge. The complaint cites violations of 42 U.S.C. § 1981, the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL), and the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL).
Gray began working for Valentino on June 6, 2013, rising through various positions to become Store Manager by April 2018. Throughout her tenure, she claims to have delivered strong performance results recognized by company awards for leadership and sales achievements between 2020 and 2024. Despite these accomplishments, Gray reports that she was subjected to “vicious racial discrimination” by Eliza Rodriguez, Director of Outlet Division at Valentino.
The complaint outlines several incidents beginning in November 2020 when Rodriguez allegedly used a racial slur during professional communications in front of Gray and other employees. Further allegations include statements made by Rodriguez attributing Gray’s selection for assignments to her race—such as being sent to Atlanta because she was Black—and recounting derogatory jokes about Black individuals at management meetings.
Gray also describes ongoing harassment during regular business calls from January 2023 through January 2025 where Rodriguez is said to have repeatedly used offensive language when referring to African American colleagues. These incidents were reportedly witnessed by other employees named in the filing.
On February 14, 2025, Gray formally reported Rodriguez’s conduct—including both discriminatory behavior and alleged theft—to Hannah Lee, Vice President of Human Resources at Valentino. In her report, Gray stated: “Eliza told me after I completed my assignment that I was chosen to go to Atlanta only because I was Black and could relate to the team.” She also expressed concerns for her safety due to Rodriguez’s influence within the organization.
The filing notes that Lee acknowledged receipt of the complaint on the same day but over the following six days Rodriguez allegedly retaliated against Gray through persistent harassment—including showing up at her home twice—in an attempt to silence her complaint. When Gray met with Lee again on February 19 expressing safety concerns about Rodriguez’s continued oversight during an internal investigation, Lee allegedly dismissed these fears and instructed Gray to return to work.
That same day, according to the complaint, Rodriguez confronted Gray at her store location with aggressive demands for a private conversation; when rebuffed, Rodriguez threatened negative consequences for Gray. Feeling unsupported by management’s response and fearing further harm or reprisal without adequate remedial action from human resources or company leadership, Gray resigned from her position on February 20, 2025.
Following her resignation, communication between Lee and Gray continued regarding an internal investigation into Rodriguez’s conduct; however, Gray asserts that Lee focused primarily on allegations of managerial abuse of power rather than addressing complaints of racial discrimination or harassment. On February 27, Lee informed Gray that results would remain confidential but confirmed that Rodriguez was no longer employed at Valentino.
In subsequent correspondence dated February 28 and beyond—attached as exhibits in the court filing—Gray reiterated detailed accounts of discriminatory treatment involving repeated use of racial slurs witnessed by multiple employees. She also documented similar experiences faced by another colleague referenced as Ms. Semper.
The lawsuit brings six claims for relief: two each under Section 1981 (discrimination and retaliation), NYSHRL (race discrimination and retaliation), and NYCHRL (race discrimination and retaliation). Each claim alleges economic loss as well as severe mental anguish resulting from Defendant’s actions or omissions—including depression, anxiety, stress-related symptoms—and seeks compensatory damages accordingly.
Gray requests judgment declaring Defendant’s practices unlawful under federal and state law; preliminary and permanent injunctions prohibiting further such conduct; monetary damages including punitive damages; attorneys’ fees; costs incurred; prejudgment interest; and any additional relief deemed appropriate by the court.
The case is identified as Civil Case No.: 1:26-cv-01768 before the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Plaintiff is represented by attorney Diego O. Barros of Joseph & Norinsberg LLC.
Source: 126cv01768_Monet_Gray_v_Valentino_Complaint_Southern_District_of_New_York.pdf
