Bobcat Sued for Workplace Discrimination at Wahpeton Facility

Minnesota woman files federal lawsuit alleging harassment, retaliation, and failure to accommodate disability

Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:19am

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Ariel R. Herrera, a former machinist at Bobcat's Wahpeton, North Dakota plant, has filed a federal lawsuit against the company's parent Doosan Bobcat North America. Herrera alleges she faced discrimination, harassment, and retaliation after disclosing her sexual orientation, as well as disability discrimination and failure to accommodate a wrist injury.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing challenges around LGBTQ+ and disability rights in the workplace, particularly in more conservative regions. The lawsuit could set precedents around employer obligations and the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws.

The details

According to the complaint, Herrera began working at Bobcat in December 2021 and received positive performance reviews early on. However, she claims that in early 2023, after disclosing her sexual orientation, her supervisor subjected her to heightened scrutiny, false accusations, and threats of discipline. In July 2024, a coworker allegedly directed anti-gay slurs and sexually degrading language at Herrera on the production floor, which she reported to HR, but Bobcat allegedly failed to take prompt action. Herrera also alleges Bobcat failed to accommodate her recurring wrist injury, instead forcing her on leave rather than identifying tasks she could perform.

  • Herrera began working at Bobcat in December 2021.
  • In early 2023, Herrera disclosed her sexual orientation to coworkers.
  • In July 2024, a coworker allegedly harassed Herrera with anti-gay slurs and sexually degrading language.
  • Herrera reported the harassment to HR on July 21, 2024.
  • In October 2024, Herrera provided updated medical restrictions for her wrist injury, but Bobcat allegedly forced her on leave.

The players

Ariel R. Herrera

A former machinist at Bobcat's Wahpeton, North Dakota facility who has filed a federal lawsuit against the company, alleging discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

Doosan Bobcat North America, Inc.

The parent company of Bobcat, named as the defendant in the lawsuit.

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What’s next

The judge will need to determine if Bobcat violated federal and state anti-discrimination laws in its treatment of Herrera.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges LGBTQ+ and disabled workers face in the workplace, even at large corporations. The outcome could set important precedents around employer obligations and the enforcement of civil rights protections.