Former Band Mate accused Olympian Shaun White of Sexual Harassment
Olympic Snowboarder, Shaun White, recently appeared in the media regarding a sexual harassment lawsuit filed in May by his former Bad Things female bandmate (drummer), Lena Zawaideh. She alleges that White has subjected her to sexual harassment for over seven years.
Zawaideh claims White exposed her to a great deal of porn that she often viewed as unpleasant. She said he allegedly showed a video of a couple that slaughtered an animal then engaged in sexual acts within the vicinity of the executed animal, according to a reputable source, TMZ. Another disturbing video Zawaideh said White coerced her to watch was titled “Church of Fudge,” which covered porn between a nun and a priest.
The sexual harassment also included porn with unidentified manure present in the video. In addition to the ludicrous video footage, Zawaideh said she received inappropriate images from White revealing “engorged and erect penises.”
All the sexual harassment previously stated, is more than enough to make an individual’s stomach cringe, however, Zawaideh said she endured more sexual harassment. She reported that White has sent her several text messages regarding her band attire not being revealing enough. She showed the text messages he sent requesting that she alters her attire along with suggestive images of mesh tops.
In 2010, Zawaideh alleged that White ordered her to cut her hair. He also may attempt to “kiss her” during a Halloween event they attended.
Zawaideh says she rebuffed White’s sexual advances and the harassment he parade around her, and in spite of her rejection, White continues to follow suit with sexually harassing her.
The Aftermath of Eerie Sexual Harassment
Although Zawaideh was a drummer, she has aspirations of becoming a doctor. The sexual harassment lawyer representing Zawaideh explained that White’s actions left Zawaideh “emotionally distressed and mentally harmed.” She had to receive professional help, “psychological treatment,” in order to restore her mental health. A disturbed state of mind has hindered Zawaideh from attaining a physician’s status.
Zawaideh released a statement on behalf of women in the workplace who endure sexual harassment saying, “I am pursuing this case because women should not have to tolerate harassment at work.” Fame does not exempt anyone from the consequences of pursuing an illegal action. She added, “Shaun White should not be allowed to do whatever he wants just because he’s famous.”
White’s response to the sexual harassment allegations stated, “Many years ago, I exchanged texts with a friend who is now using them to craft a bogus lawsuit.” He said, “There is absolutely no coincidence to the timing of her claims, and we will defend them vigorously.”
Prior to being fired from the band in 2014, Zawaideh had been exposed to White’s “darker, misogynistic personality.” Currently, she is seeking monetary and other unspecified damages.
Preventative Measures for Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment comes in many forms throughout the professional atmosphere. Sexual harassment between people of the opposite sex, especially in a close work setting, is very common. Sexual harassment is illegal, and former and current victims of sexual harassment consistently reiterate that it needs to stop. It seems that most work environments are not invested in securing the safety of their staff until sexual harassment allegations appear.
Preventative measures for sexual harassment such as conducting an internal survey requesting anonymous responses about sexual harassment at work, or sexual harassment training and policies may have a impact on individuals to either speak up or reconsider harassing someone at work. The survey will help the leaders of the workplace assess a better understanding of where sexual harassment lies at work. The sexual harassment training and policy reviews will keep the staff well informed.
Sexual Harassment Lawyer New York City
If you have ever been a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace in New York, New Jersey, Miami, or Philadelphia, contact Derek Smith Law Group, PLLC for legal assistance with your sexual harassment case. Our attorneys are ready to examine your case, provide answers to your questions, and deliver the legal representation you deserve. For more information on sexual harassment, call us at 800-807-2209 for a free consultation.
