Allegations of Discrimination at Crowley Maritime: A St. Thomas Professional’s Fight for Justice

Kishma Vincent, a dedicated professional with two decades of experience at Crowley Caribbean Services and Crowley Maritime Corporation, has initiated legal action, alleging wrongful termination under the guise of mismanagement to favor a less-qualified candidate from Puerto Rico. Appointed as Director of Operations for the Virgin Islands in 2022, Vincent was responsible for managing the company’s terminal and warehouses and directing local sales and marketing efforts in the region, overseeing a team of 63 employees across St. Thomas and St. Croix.

Vincent’s tenure was marked by challenges from the outset, with claims of preferential treatment toward Spanish-speaking managers from Puerto Rico by her supervisors, Enrique Figueroa, Senior Director of Caribbean Operations, and Salvador Menoyo, a Vice President, both of Puerto Rican descent. Allegations include being sidelined from crucial meetings, excluded from company social gatherings, and subjected to disparaging remarks regarding the intelligence of the local population compared to Puerto Ricans.

The lawsuit details several incidents purportedly leading to Vincent’s dismissal, including the misplacement of shipping containers prior to her directorship and a misinterpreted situation regarding an employee allegedly bringing a firearm to work. Vincent asserts these reasons were baseless, emphasizing her proactive approach to addressing potential conflicts of interest within the company.

Since her departure, Vincent alleges her responsibilities have been transferred to a former subordinate, purportedly with lesser qualifications. She seeks justice through the Virgin Islands District Court, demanding compensation for lost wages, mental anguish, and punitive damages against Crowley for what she perceives as blatant racial discrimination.

This case emerges amidst Crowley Maritime’s continued commitment to the USVI, highlighted by a recent 10-year agreement with the V.I. Port Authority, underscoring the importance of fair and equitable treatment of employees in sustaining operations and fostering community relations.