Lawmaker files discrimination suit

PROVIDENCE (AP) — A Rhode Island lawmaker has filed a lawsuit against the city of Providence, claiming she was punished when she addressed suspected discrimination against a Hispanic co-worker.

The federal lawsuit filed by Democratic Sen. Ana Quezada claims Providence’s Department of Inspection and Standards allows discrimination.

Quezada alleges that a Hispanic colleague in the department was passed over for a job he was qualified for. According to the suit, the department said it was not hiring for the position and later added new requirements. Quezada says she was suspended for five days from her position as an inspector after she asked director Jeffrey Lykins about the department’s hiring practices.

Providence officials declined to comment when reached by WJAR-TV, citing pending litigation.