Lizzo, despite receiving a humanitarian award from the Black Music Action Coalition, faced another lawsuit accusing her of fostering a hostile workplace. Wardrobe stylist Asha Daniels filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleging sexual and racial harassment, disability discrimination, retaliation, and assault by Lizzo and supervisors of Big Grrl Big Touring.
Daniels claimed she endured a “culture of racism and bullying” and accused Lizzo and wardrobe manager Amanda Nomura of promoting an “unsafe, sexually charged workplace culture.” The lawsuit also detailed aggressive verbal harassment by Nomura, which Lizzo and her management were allegedly aware of. Daniels mentioned being frequently denied breaks and recounted an incident where, after spraining her ankle, she received no medical treatment and was forced to remain on her feet all day without rest.
In February, Daniels reported “widespread racial and sexual harassment” to tour manager Carlina Gugliotta, but she was allegedly ignored and terminated prematurely. The lawsuit names Lizzo, Nomura, Gugliotta, and Big Grrrls Big Touring Inc. as defendants.
This lawsuit mirrors earlier allegations from Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, three of Lizzo’s dancers, who accused Lizzo, Big Grrls Big Touring Inc., and dance captain Shirlene Quigley of sexual, religious, and racial harassment, disability discrimination, assault, and false imprisonment in August.
Lizzo’s representatives have denied the allegations, labeling the lawsuit as an “absurd publicity stunt.” However, when multiple individuals on the tour raise similar concerns, it suggests a problematic work environment. As the leader, Lizzo sets the tone for her staff’s treatment. Failing to address or rectify the broken culture reflects on her, regardless of her musical success or social media presence.
