Nationwide — Brandie Falice, who is from Atlanta, Georgia, filed a lawsuit against PNC Bank, alleging she was denied a promotion because she is a single African American mother despite her years of experience at the bank.“I felt discouraged and I felt the time I spent with this company and my efforts to reach my goals in that space were shot down because of something that I love about myself,” Falice told WSB-TV.
The lawsuit states Falice, a six-year employee aiming for a higher management role, was told she wasn’t a good fit because she is Black and that most customers at the branch are white. The regional manager also said her being a single mother might affect her availability on weekends.
Falice felt this treatment undermined her worth, causing her lasting emotional distress.
“It does feel like you’re judged and it feels like you’re not worthy as other people,” she said. “It was very disrespectful and I questioned my worth altogether because of that.”
Falice, who has a Bachelor of Business Administration from Georgia State University, joined PNC in 2018. She moved up during the pandemic and had hoped to advance to a higher position at the Peachtree Corners branch after 6 years with the company.
In response, PNC Bank denied the allegations, asserting that Falice was treated fairly and in line with their company policies.
“We believe Ms. Falice was treated fairly and consistent with our company values, policies and practices,” it said in a statement. “PNC does not tolerate discrimination or retaliation and we look forward to presenting the facts in court.”
Falice’s lawyer, Artur Davis, is calling for PNC to take responsibility for the alleged bias, pointing out how many women of color might face similar challenges.
Falice has left PNC in April 2024, according to her LinkedIn profile. She is now working as a senior account executive at an IT company in Atlanta.