Calling white women Karen is borderline 'racist, sexist and ageist', says tribunal

An employment tribunal says that calling someone a “Karen” is “borderline racist, sexist and ageist”.

- TED HENNESSY

The judge presiding over the case described the “pejorative” slang term as typically aimed at middle-aged white women.

The ruling emerged during a hearing at Watford Employment Tribunal, where Sylvia Constance, 74, brought claims of unfair dismissal, direct race and age discrimination, and victimisation against Harpendon Mencap. The charity provides support to adults with learning disabilities.

Ms Constance, who the tribunal heard is Black British, alleged she was targeted because of her race, leading to her dismissal on 13 June 2023.