International Longshoremen's Union

Several women filed a class action lawsuit against their employer over gender harassment and discrimination. The case was filed in 1999 and the two lead plaintiffs, Vonceil Fisher and Traveine Howard, are set to receive $25,000 each. $1.5 million will also be paid in legal fees. According to the settlement, the union must let women work more and get higher wages. Depending on how may of the 150 affected women take advantage of the agreement, enhancements could add up to $54 million. (Jul-10-05) [THE LEDGER]