Lori Franchina, a retired firefighter from Rhode Island, secured nearly $2 million in damages due to the anti-LGBTQ+ abuse she faced while serving. This follows an earlier award of over $800,000 after being denied an accidental disability pension which pays more than general disability. Franchina’s attorney emphasized that the retirement board's refusal to mediate contributed to this significant judgment. The case sheds light on systemic discrimination within the Providence Fire Department and the urgent necessity for addressing such workplace abuses, marking a critical moment in LGBTQ+ rights within emergency services.
Lori Franchina's lawsuit highlighted the systemic anti-LGBTQ+ abuse she endured as a firefighter and the negligence of the retirement board, leading to substantial damages.
Franchina's lawyer criticized the retirement board for not seeking mediation, which could have saved them from a massive payout, showing the board's failure in managing the situation.
The award represents not just compensation for Franchina, but also addresses broader issues of workplace discrimination and the urgent need for systemic change in fire departments.
Jurors were presented with disturbing details of Franchina's experiences, revealing a troubling culture within the Providence Fire Department that condoned anti-LGBTQ+ abuse.
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