An employment tribunal judge has declared that calling a white middle-aged woman "Karen" is "borderline racist, sexist and ageist" in a ruling on a workplace discrimination case.

Judge George Alliott made the remarks while dismissing claims brought by Sylvia Constance, a 74-year-old black support worker who accused mental health charity Mencap of racial and age discrimination.

The term Karen, which gained popularity during the pandemic, typically describes middle-aged white women who angrily confront those they perceive as beneath them socially.

The judge noted the term was "pejorative" as it suggests someone is excessively and unreasonably demanding.

An employment tribunal judge has declared that calling a white middle-aged woman 'Karen' is 'borderline racist, sexist and ageist' in a ruling on a workplace discrimination case.

The expression originated as an internet meme and has become associated with excessive Facebook usage, anti-vaccination views and blonde bob haircuts.

Constance, who described herself as black British, worked at a Mencap residential home in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, supporting adults with learning disabilities from 2016.

Tensions arose when Claire Wilson became manager in 2021, with the tribunal hearing Wilson faced "open hostility" from Constance, who "sighed" at her and gave one-word responses.

Wilson suspended Constance in 2021 over allegations of bullying residents and staff. A week later, Constance filed a grievance.

The term Karen gained popularity during the pandemic

The grievance, written by Constance's friend Christine Yates, accused female managers of acting "like the stereotypical Karen" by having "weaponised their privilege and more powerful position" against Constance.

“There is also something very sordid about the way in which white, female management have facilitated racism [and given] a misogynistic, racist view of the black complainant,” the grievance said.

It alleged that there was “clearly a hostile environment for black staff” at the home, which made it “unsafe” for Constance “to return to face further victimisation”.

The grievance also alleged there was "clearly a hostile environment for black staff" at the home, making it "unsafe" for Constance "to return to face further victimisation."

The judge noted the term was 'pejorative'

Mencap dropped the disciplinary process in 2022 and took no action against Constance, who then went on sick leave and filed another grievance.

Managers repeatedly attempted to arrange meetings to discuss the grievance, but Constance refused to attend. A meeting was held in her absence and the grievance was rejected.

After failing to return to work for a year, Constance was dismissed due to "an irrevocable breakdown in the relationship" with her bosses.

Judge Alliott dismissed all claims of unfair dismissal, race and age discrimination and victimisation, stating there was "no suggestion that any of the actions of Claire Wilson were prompted by a racist sentiment".