Discrimination Allegations Against Leading Advertising Agency

One of the most influential independent media firms in America faces legal action over claims of discrimination.

Previously holding senior roles in marketing and public relations at Horizon Media, two Black employees have initiated a lawsuit. They accuse the company of maintaining a culture of ingrained racial and gender discrimination, despite its public advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

Latraviette Smith-Wilson and Charisma Deberry argue that their personal experiences sharply contrast with Horizon's claims of being a 'people-centric' organization that embraces a culture of inclusion. Smith-Wilson's employment was terminated earlier, while Deberry remains with the firm.

The lawsuit targets high-ranking executives at Horizon, alleging they contributed to a prejudiced workplace atmosphere marked by biased attitudes based on race and gender, misleading support, and unequal treatment.

Although Horizon Media hasn't commented directly on the ongoing legal proceedings, a representative stated that the allegations lack merit and the company is ready to contest them vigorously.

The company asserts its dedication to high ethical standards and insists it remains a top-rated employer in the industry.

This lawsuit surfaces amidst an evolving landscape regarding DEI in corporate environments. An initial wave of commitments from firms like Meta, Walmart, and Starbucks sought to promote workplace equality following significant social and political events. However, some initiatives have been scaled back or discontinued.

Horizon Media's Corporate Profile

Ranking among the largest media agencies in the United States, Horizon Media manages over $8.5 billion in media spending and collaborates with major clients, including Capital One, Revlon, and Honda.

Details of the Allegations

When Smith-Wilson joined Horizon in 2022, she was the sole Black member within the top executive circles. The lawsuit contends her successes were not fully acknowledged, she was deprived of resources her white colleagues had, and she was often excluded from critical decisions. On various occasions, she was labeled as 'uncooperative' or 'inept.'

One specific incident highlights her exclusion from discussions about an anonymous letter titled 'The Cancer Within Horizon,' which criticized the firm for its treatment of minority employees. Although the letter was shared with senior leadership and legal teams, Smith-Wilson was initially bypassed despite her role related to equity.

Once the letter surfaced on LinkedIn, Smith-Wilson advocated for an external legal investigation. However, throughout this process, the lawsuit suggests her decision-making authority was openly questioned by company executives.

She was dismissed in April 2025 under claims of organizational restructuring, a decision the lawsuit argues was veiled retaliation. Shortly after her departure, Horizon announced plans to fill her position.

The legal complaint describes Deberry's experiences with similar discrimination, including unwarranted critical assessments and diminishing of her professional role, scrutiny her white peers did not face.

Deberry also faced bias when her preparation efforts for a prominent marketing conference were dismissed as her attendance was canceled, with the event delegation eventually consisting solely of white male employees.

The lawsuit describes how Deberry continues to endure bias and efforts to marginalize her work.

The plaintiffs are seeking a jury trial and unspecified monetary damages.