Former EBDI Executive Sues Mayor Scott Over Allegations of Racial Discrimination

Andrew C. Freeman, the former vice president of real estate development at East Baltimore Development Inc. (EBDI), has initiated a federal lawsuit against Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott, citing allegations of racial discrimination.

Freeman, who identifies as White and Jewish, alleges that his termination occurred shortly after he was elevated to the vice president role. The lawsuit also mentions an attempt to rehire Karen Major Johnson, the former chief real estate officer who was dismissed shortly after Freeman's promotion. The legal action contends that Freeman's firing was racially motivated.

In the lawsuit, Freeman asserts that while diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are essential for addressing historical inequities, the approach taken by Mayor Scott prioritizes superficial compliance over genuine opportunity. The suit claims, “Mr. Scott’s brand of DEI gives people opportunities simply because they check a box.”

Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that EBDI President and CEO Cheryl Y. Washington confirmed in writing that Mayor Scott had directed her to terminate Freeman.

In response to inquiries regarding the lawsuit and the EEOC complaint, the Mayor's Office stated, “Our office will respond at the appropriate time in the appropriate legal forum.”

This lawsuit emerges at a time when DEI initiatives are under increasing scrutiny at the federal level, coinciding with a rise in claims of “reverse discrimination.” In December 2025, Andrea Lucas, chair of the EEOC, encouraged White men who feel they have faced workplace discrimination to reach out to the agency.

Rebecca Dixon, the CEO of the National Employment Law Project, noted that Freeman’s case is indicative of a national trend concerning civil rights enforcement and workplace litigation. She highlighted a notable increase in political and legal challenges to DEI initiatives and a shift in the enforcement priorities of the EEOC.

Dixon pointed out that while federal anti-discrimination laws apply to all racial backgrounds, including White employees, the perception of DEI initiatives as discriminatory is growing. She emphasized that many DEI initiatives remain lawful and necessary for creating equitable opportunities.

Laurie E. Morrison, a civil rights attorney, remarked that while legitimate discrimination claims can be made by White employees, the public dialogue surrounding these cases often becomes politically charged, detracting from broader workplace issues.

Reported by HarborBeat based on AFRO American Newspapers (source).