The parents of Kerri Moynihan, 32 are suing the company for 'wrongful death' back in 2017 after her suicide. She was found unresponsive on a work retreat at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa on April 27, 2017.
Kerri had worked at Activision/Blizzard as a Finance Manager since 2011.
In a Lawsuit filed by Miss Moynihan's parents, as reported by Los Angeles Times they allege Moynihan was subjected to “unwanted sexual harassment” that led her to take her own life that night. Moynihan suffered emotional distress and mental anguish resulting from a “hostile, intimidating, offensive, oppressive, and abusive” workplace, and that Activision failed to prevent the harassment that led to her death, both in violation of California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act. Further to this her parents state that Miss Moynihan had not shown any signs of wanting to commit suicide and had planned to attend a music festival a few days later.
It was noted on the suit that personal images of Miss Moynihan had been circulating on the trip in question.
On an online obituary she was described as "A passionate animal lover, Kerri had a special place in her heart for cats" "She often volunteered at animal shelters and made donations to help animals in need." "Kerri was a certified public accountant (CPA) who loved her job and spent much of her free time walking, biking and relaxing by the beach."
Other claims of a 'Frat Boy' encouraged workplace have been shared online. This has seen employees strike and unfair pay deals brought to light from women in the company in the past year. Multiple lawsuits taken out against the company have become prominent. The most recent Lawsuit relating to this was July 20th 2021 filed by the State's Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). It includes a number of shocking allegations including "constant sexual harassment" at Blizzard Entertainment (via Bloomberg)
In a world where we strive for equality between sexes, it is a worrying notion that women are still seemingly being subjected to such outdated and unethical practices.
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