In a striking lawsuit that underscores ongoing concerns about workplace discrimination, an employee has taken legal action against a major city, alleging racial and sexual harassment. The complaint was filed by Antonio Colon in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on November 7, 2025, targeting the City of Chicago and several individuals within its Department of Streets and Sanitation.
Antonio Colon, an African American resident of Chicago and long-time employee of the city’s Department of Streets and Sanitation, alleges a hostile work environment perpetuated by racial discrimination and sexual harassment. According to the complaint, on November 2, 2024, Samuel Caballero, a supervisor in the department, created a group text intended for work assignments using a city-issued phone. In this group chat, Donald Paulauski allegedly sent messages containing racially offensive language and sexually explicit images. Despite these actions being reported to Human Resources and claims filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Colon asserts that no significant disciplinary action was taken against those involved.
The complaint details how after reporting these incidents, Colon faced retaliation including being passed over for overtime opportunities and being marginalized at work. He claims that despite his exemplary service over nearly 15 years, he now fears going to work due to the lack of accountability within his department. The lawsuit accuses the City of Chicago of failing to properly train or discipline its employees which has fostered an environment where such behavior is tolerated.
Colon seeks various forms of relief from the court including compensatory damages for emotional distress and lost wages as well as punitive damages against those responsible. The suit also calls for a declaration that the defendants’ actions were unlawful under federal civil rights laws including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and Sections 1981 and 1983.
Representing Antonio Colon are attorneys Troy S. Radunsky and Jason E. DeVore from DeVore Radunsky LLC. The case is identified as Case No. 1:25-cv-13679 in front of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
Source: 125cv13679_Antonio_Colon_v_City_of_Chicago_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Illinois.pdf
