In a recent ruling, the Regional Labor Court of Goiás (TRT-GO) awarded compensation to Clebya Aparecida Ribeiro de Oliveira, a 44-year-old financial assistant, after she was derogatorily referred to as 'véia' (old lady) at her workplace. The court's decision, as narrated by Judge Eunice Fernandes de Castro, highlighted the emotional distress suffered by the plaintiff, which led her to cry at work and ultimately resulted in her request for indirect termination of her employment contract instead of a voluntary resignation. As part of the ruling, she is entitled to receive severance payments and the awarded compensation for her suffering.

The incident occurred while Ribeiro de Oliveira was employed at an accounting office in Goiânia from April to October 2024, during which she was the only employee in her sector who was given a nickname by her coworkers. This personal attack contributed significantly to her feelings of isolation and resulted in her experiencing depression. The court emphasized the harmful effects of derogatory language in the workplace and underscored the responsibility of employers to maintain a healthy work environment.

In seeking comment, g1 contacted Humberto Teles Ferreira, the owner of the accounting office, who represented himself in court. This case not only raises important questions about workplace harassment and the psychological impact it can have on employees but also signals a growing awareness and judicial response to the need for respect and dignity in labor relations in Brazil.