Veteran Boston Anchor Files Lawsuit Over Alleged Demotion Due to Diversity Policies

A seasoned television anchor from Boston has filed a lawsuit claiming that he was demoted as part of a corporate push to meet diversity goals.

Katherine Merrill Dunham, who identifies as white, accuses WBZ-TV of misusing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies imposed by CBS and Paramount Global, suggesting that these policies led to significant career repercussions for her.

In the legal filing, CBS is quoted stating, “Diversity, equity and inclusion standards must be top leadership priorities in every corner.” The lawsuit references a CBS executive indicating that WBZ-TV was “too white” and highlighted a contrast between the station’s purportedly diverse talent and its predominantly white staff.

In September 2023, the station reportedly hired well-known Black anchor Jason Mikel, which coincided with the dismissal of white meteorologist Zach Green.

Further complicating the situation, allegations surfaced regarding inappropriate comments made by Mikel on air, suggesting that he insinuated a sexual relationship existed between Merrill and her co-anchor.

WBZ, CBS, and Paramount have not addressed Merrill’s complaints regarding Mikel’s alleged aggressive behavior nor previous reports about Mikel’s own “sexually charged” comments towards Merrill. Instead, Merrill was informed that investigations were focusing on her treatment of colleagues based on race.

Merrill strongly disputes Mikel’s accusations, maintaining that none of her actions were influenced by racial bias, and describes Mikel’s claim as being driven by malicious intent.

Ultimately, Merrill was notified of her demotion to weekend shifts from her previous position as co-anchor.

Expressing her distress over the situation, she stated that she formally resigned on May 24, 2024, following a damaging environment that perpetuated allegations of racism against her. She noted that her employment agreement with WBZ would expire on June 1, 2025, which included a non-compete clause, further restricting her ability to work in her field for a substantial period. Hence, she has endured significant financial strain.

In recent developments, CBS’s parent company, Paramount, announced plans to eliminate some of its diversity practices amidst a proposal to merge with SkyDance Media.