by Mindy Aguon

Guam - A former Judiciary employee has come forward claiming he was discriminated against while working as a program coordinator for the courts. Hentrick Eveluck recently resigned from his job as he claims he was fed up with being mistreated and ridiculed by his supervisor on a daily basis.

In 2009 Eveluck filed a discrimination complaint claiming he was denied training, promotion and praise for his work due to his race. "She said, 'You're a master degree student/person, but I hate your work', and I overheard her mentioning to one of the employees, 'Don't ever bother with that guy, because he's a dumb Chuukese.'"

He added, "I was hoping at that time I would just melt and disappear. I'm not an animal. I'm a human being."

Eveluck filed a complaint that was investigated by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Department of Justice. Statements were obtained from some of his co-workers who attested to hearing racially disparaging remarks against Eveluck and Chuukese people. Although he was given notice that he could sue, Eveluck didn't file in time as he says the Guam Federation of Teachers never helped him pursue the case. His supervisor in turn filed a counter-complaint against Eveluck, alleging sexism.

The Judiciary was unable to resolve the matter through mediation but contends they adequately addressed Eveluck's concerns. A retaliation complaint meanwhile is still open before the Judicial Council.

Fed up, Eveluck resigned last month while his supervisor was nominated for an integrity award at the Judiciary.