Zoo Volunteer Exposes Allegations of Discrimination and Mismanagement

Erica Lee, a former volunteer at Woodland Park Zoo, has raised serious concerns regarding age discrimination and workplace practices at the facility. After dedicating over 700 hours to the zoo over six years, Lee applied for a summer job but was not selected, despite her extensive experience. She claims that eight younger candidates were hired instead, prompting the zoo to conduct an investigation into her allegations of age discrimination, which ultimately concluded with no findings and no explanation for her non-selection.

Lee's frustrations escalated after she posted a video of zoo staff addressing the Seattle City Council about low wages, which she believes reflects broader issues of employee treatment at the zoo. Following her public comments, she was removed from the volunteer program, a move she perceives as retaliation for her advocacy.

In addition to her employment concerns, Lee recounted a personal injury incident at the zoo where she broke her ankle. She alleged that Anne Dalrymple, head of HR, accused her of attempting to exploit the zoo financially when she inquired about reimbursement for a knee scooter used during her recovery.

Lee has also engaged with various city council members, including Dan Strauss and council member Barone, to discuss her concerns about volunteer exploitation and HR practices. However, she expressed disappointment that her issues were seemingly dismissed, suggesting a disconnect between zoo leadership and the concerns of its staff and volunteers.

The situation highlights ongoing discussions about employee treatment and compensation at the zoo, particularly as it receives partial funding from the city and King County. Lee's experiences raise questions about transparency and accountability within the zoo's management and its relationship with the community it serves.