A student union worker who was forced out of his job after objecting to his boss's demands to exclude 'white middle-aged' celebrities from opening a new building has won an employment tribunal.
Ellen Rudge, then a senior manager at the University of Leicester's Students' Union, sent an email to staff asking for suggestions for high-profile figures to launch its new hub - the Percy Gee Building.
In her email, the marketing manager specifically stated she did not want 'another white, middle-aged man' for the opening of the building as she was trying to 'reflect diversity'.
But she was warned by HR worker Ricardo Champayne that by singling out a particular group she risked being offensive and derogatory.
Ms Rudge complained to HR about Mr Champayne's response. But rather than probe her comments, an investigation was launched into Mr Champayne - who subsequently resigned.
At an employment tribunal, the father-of-six alleged he had been 'victimised' by the students' union for calling out potential discrimination.
And now he has won more than £1,000 after successfully suing the SU for whistle-blowing and victimisation.
Ellen Rudge, then a senior manager at the University of Leicester's Students' Union, sent an email to staff asking for suggestions for high-profile figures to launch its new hub - the Percy Gee Building (pictured)
At the employment tribunal in Nottingham, a judge ruled that it was reasonable for Mr Champayne to conclude that Ms Rudge's email on February 14, 2020, was discriminatory.
In the message she said: 'I am looking for suggestions for notable public figures the University could approach to officially open the new SU/Percy Gee Building in September.
'I have been very vocal about the need for the person to reflect diversity i.e. not another white middle aged man...'
Mr Champayne, who had only worked at the SU for a month, replied to her: 'Dear Ellen, I write in regard to your email seeking nomination for representative to SU.
'I have set the matter as needing urgent attention. With all respect, I am bound by personal and legal principles to object the [sic] tone of your email.
'It is not right to speak in a derogatory way against anyone. I must highlight that diversity can be represented by any race of class.
'I am conscious that recipients of this email potentially were offended.'
Ms Rudge considered Mr Champayne was alleging she was a
