Former Baltimore DPW Equity Director Files Discrimination Lawsuit

Linda Batts alleges a culture of systemic discrimination and a racially hostile work environment at the city's Department of Public Works

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Linda Batts, Baltimore's first-ever director of equity for the Department of Public Works (DPW), has filed a federal lawsuit against the city and DPW, claiming she was fired in 2021 for exposing what she says are civil rights violations and a culture of systemic discrimination, including a racially hostile work environment that employees described as a "plantation" and "slave ship" environment.

Why it matters

Batts' lawsuit sheds light on allegations of pervasive discrimination and a toxic work culture within Baltimore's DPW, raising concerns about the city government's commitment to equity and inclusion, especially in a department responsible for critical public services.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Batts reported that Black employees at the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant were subjected to a racially hostile environment they described as a "slave ship." Batts also claimed that female employees at DPW facilities were denied equal access to restrooms and forced to leave the building to use facilities, which she reported to leadership.

  • Batts was hired as Baltimore's first-ever director of equity for the Department of Public Works in 2019.
  • Batts was fired from her position in 2021.

The players

Linda Batts

Baltimore's first-ever director of equity for the Department of Public Works, who filed a federal lawsuit against the city and DPW alleging discrimination and a hostile work environment.

Baltimore Department of Public Works (DPW)

The city agency that Batts worked for and is named in the lawsuit.

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What they’re saying

“Severely hostile. Retaliatory. Akin to a pre-Emancipation Proclamation colonial plantation-type environment where the overseer scrutinized their every move.”

— Linda Batts

What’s next

The lawsuit is currently pending in federal court, and the city of Baltimore has not yet responded to the allegations.

The takeaway

Batts' lawsuit highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing systemic discrimination and creating inclusive work environments, even in positions specifically tasked with promoting equity. The case underscores the need for continued vigilance and accountability in rooting out discriminatory practices within public institutions.