JUDGE REJECTS META’S BID TO DISMISS SEXUAL HARASSMENT LAWSUIT FROM FORMER EMPLOYEE. (PHOTO).

 Judge rejects Meta’s bid to dismiss sexual harassment lawsuit from former employee

 A federal judge has denied Meta’s request to dismiss a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by former employee Kelly Stonelake, allowing parts of the case to move forward. U.S. District Judge Barbara Rothstein ruled that some of Stonelake’s claims had merit, paving the way for continued proceedings.

Stonelake, who worked at Meta from 2009 until her layoff in early 2024, alleges sexual harassment, sex discrimination, and retaliation during her time at the company. She claims Meta failed to act after she reported sexual assault and harassment, that she was repeatedly passed over for promotions in favor of male colleagues, and that she faced retaliation after raising concerns over a video game she deemed racist and harmful to minors. Stonelake said these experiences had severe effects on her mental health, requiring medical treatment.

In response to the ruling, Stonelake expressed hope that it would encourage others who have faced workplace discrimination to seek accountability through the courts. Meta had argued that Stonelake’s claims were legally insufficient and barred by the statute of limitations, but the judge found that allegations related to retaliation, failure to promote, and sexual harassment were sufficient to proceed. Other claims, including additional allegations of harassment, retaliation, and wrongful discharge, were dismissed. Stonelake’s request to amend her filing was also denied.

The next step in the case will be a joint status report from both parties, due in mid-September. Stonelake’s suit adds to a series of high-profile allegations against Meta, including claims from former public policy executive Sarah Wynn-Williams, who accused the company of harassment and retaliation in her memoir. Meta has denied all allegations.