Women, Fbi May Be Going To Court Over Discrimination

Negotiations have stalled between the FBI and a group of female agents who contend there is widespread discrimination against them in the agency run mostly by men.

The standoff could end in court, according to the women’s attorney.

Previously, the FBI has settled discrimination complaints by blacks in the agency, and lost a discrimination suit filed by Hispanics.

“The FBI’s got to make fundamental changes in the workplace and they don’t appear ready to do that,” said the women’s lawyer, David J. Shaffer. “Sexism pervades the atmosphere at the FBI.”

Thomas Kelley, a deputy general counsel for the bureau, said negotiations were only “on hold.”

“I understand there may be some sense of frustration,” Kelley said. “But you can take it to the bank the FBI is working as hard as it can to address these issues.”