An insurance agent's allegations of racial and age discrimination have reignited discussions on workplace equality. William Quan, a former employee of Acrisure of California, LLC, filed a complaint against the company in the Court of Appeal of the State of California, First Appellate District, Division One on June 17, 2024.
Quan's case centers around his termination following the closure of his office and an unsuccessful transfer to a partner firm. Quan claims that Lynne Wallace, an executive at Vantreo Insurance Brokerage Firm (a partner firm under Acrisure), made discriminatory remarks during a meeting about his transition. According to Quan, Wallace suggested she needed to "rejuvenate" him, which he interpreted as a slight against his age and experience. Wallace denies making such comments and asserts that her decision not to bring Quan onboard was based on his conduct during the meeting.
After being terminated, Quan sought payment from three former colleagues under a side agreement related to his employment terms. These colleagues consulted with Michael Holzman, Quan’s supervisor at the time of termination. Holzman provided limited information about Quan’s dismissal, leading to further complications. The trial court initially granted summary judgment in favor of Acrisure on all causes of action brought by Quan. However, upon appeal, it was determined that there were triable issues regarding race and age discrimination claims.
Quan's lawsuit includes accusations of race and age discrimination under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), failure to prevent discrimination, unjust enrichment, invasion of privacy, and negligent infliction of emotional distress. He argues that he was unfairly targeted due to his race (Chinese descent) and age (66 at the time). The appellate court found sufficient evidence suggesting discriminatory motives behind his termination but upheld the summary judgment regarding the invasion of privacy claim.
The plaintiff seeks various forms of relief including compensation for damages incurred due to alleged unlawful termination practices. The court reversed summary adjudication on several counts but affirmed it concerning invasion of privacy.
Representing William Quan is an unnamed attorney while Lynne Wallace is represented by counsel from Acrisure. The case is presided over by Judges Humes, Banke and Siggins, with Case ID A166628.