SpaceX Sued for Discrimination, Harassment, Security Breaches

SpaceX is facing multiple federal lawsuits from former employees alleging workplace discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. L’Tavious Rice, a Black former materials inspector, claims he was unfairly fired for tardiness related to caring for his daughter after a heart transplant, while white colleagues were shown leniency for similar infractions; his attorney also alleges that SpaceX manipulated time records for white employees but not for Rice. Rice further claims he faced retaliation for agreeing to testify against a supervisor. Jenna Shumway, a former manager, accuses SpaceX of gender-based pay disparity, enduring a hostile work environment, and harassment and retaliation by her superior Daniel Collins, who is also accused of violating security protocols. Shumway's complaint alleges harassment and discrimination against other female employees and claims her dismissal was the result of Collins' conduct. The lawsuits coincide with federal reviews of SpaceX’s workplace and security practices, intensifying scrutiny of the company’s internal culture and regulatory compliance.