SFMTA fosters culture of racism and harassment, former worker alleges in trial

The trial concerning allegations of racial and disability discrimination at the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) began on April 25, 2025, with former worker Elias Georgopoulos as the plaintiff. Georgopoulos claims that director Shawn McCormick perpetuated a culture of discrimination within the parking division, specifically targeting minority neighborhoods for parking citations. Testimony revealed that McCormick allegedly expressed disdain for residents of these areas, stating, “Those people don’t know how to fight City Hall. ” Additionally, Georgopoulos reported severe workplace harassment, including being called derogatory names and being shouted at for speaking Spanish. The SFMTA has denied the allegations, asserting that Georgopoulos himself behaved inappropriately towards colleagues.

The trial is expected to last several days, highlighting serious issues of workplace discrimination and harassment. Georgopoulos and his wife reportedly felt unsafe at work, even upgrading their home security system due to threats from coworkers. This case could lead to significant changes in policy and conduct within the agency.