The City of Tulsa is poised to pay $500,000 to resolve a discrimination lawsuit brought forth by two prominent women in the Tulsa Fire Department. This settlement follows a ruling earlier in July that allowed the case to proceed to trial.
On Tuesday, Tulsa County Court announced the acceptance of a $500,000 settlement for Greta Hurt and Julie Lynn, who alleged that they were unfairly overlooked for promotions in favor of less experienced male colleagues. The financial resolution covers damages, legal costs, and attorney fees associated with their claims.
Hurt and Lynn, who both joined the fire department in 1998, have steadily risen through the ranks during their tenure. In August 2021, they applied for two available Assistant Chief positions but were passed over. Instead, two male applicants were promoted, despite both women asserting that they possessed greater qualifications and experience.
The lawsuit suggests that Fire Chief Michael Baker and Deputy Chief Brent Goins improperly influenced the hiring decisions, favoring male candidates over the women. “These women risk their lives daily, yet they were systematically denied promotional opportunities solely based on their gender,” stated Linda Morrissey, a retired Tulsa County Judge and one of the attorneys representing Hurt and Lynn. “This situation is not only unfair but also unlawful. We are committed to seeking justice for our clients and advocating for every woman who has faced similar discrimination.”
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District, under Judge John D. Russell, dismissed a defense motion for summary judgment that could have derailed the plaintiffs’ claims of discrimination. In his decision, Judge Russell highlighted compelling evidence that might suggest the selection process was biased, questioning the validity of the Department’s rationale for promoting the male candidates.
Hurt expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling. “We are simply asking for equal opportunities in our careers like our male counterparts. I am hopeful that bringing this case to trial will help eliminate discriminatory practices within the Tulsa Fire Department,” she said.
The court did, however, uphold a summary judgment concerning the women’s claims regarding retaliation, hostile work environment, and constructive discharge, which will not be part of the trial. The lawsuit is set to go to trial on August 11, 2025, where the two will continue to seek accountability and change within the department.
This case has drawn attention to long-standing issues of gender inequality in various professions, underscoring the disparities that can exist even in organizations tasked with public safety.
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