EEOC v. Regency Architectural Metals Corp.

**What Happened** Mary T. Hodge, a worker in the construction industry, faced discrimination and other workplace problems. When she tried to get help from her union - the International Association of Bridge, Structural & Ornamental Ironworkers and Local 832 - the union failed to properly represent her interests. Making matters worse, the union retaliated against one of its own officials who tried to help Hodge with her case. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) stepped in to file a lawsuit on Hodge's behalf. **What the Court Decided** The court ruled in favor of Hodge and the EEOC. The judge found that the union violated federal law by failing to represent Hodge properly and by retaliating against the union official who assisted her. However, claims against Hodge's actual employers were dismissed because those companies had gone bankrupt. **Why This Matters for Workers** This case shows that unions have a legal duty to represent all their members fairly, regardless of personal characteristics. Workers can seek help from the EEOC when their own union fails them. The ruling also protects union officials who stand up for members facing discrimination, making it clear that retaliation against these advocates is illegal.