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Apr. 30, 2026

Are employee networking events a Title VII liability?

Even well-intentioned workplace initiatives may invite legal scrutiny--the EEOC's lawsuit against Coca-Cola illustrates an expanding view of actionable harm under Title VII.

Mae Alberto

Of Counsel
Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo

251 South Lake Avenue, Suite 360
Pasadena , California 91101

Phone: (626) 773-7659

Fax: (626) 583-8610

Email: mae.alberto@aalrr.com

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Are employee networking events a Title VII liability?
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For many employers, litigation risk may not necessarily stem from intentional misconduct, but rather from the growing complexity of employment laws and the evolving interpretation of what constitutes unlawful discrimination. Thus, even well‑intentioned workplace initiatives--particularly those designed to promote engagement, leadership development or inclusion--may invite legal scrutiny if they impact protected characteristics. A recent lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employm...

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