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TORONTO – A Pan Am Games manager says in a lawsuit she was sexually harassed by David Peterson, the former Ontario premier and chairman of the competition’s organizing committee.
Ximena Morris filed her claim in Ontario Superior Court on Thursday. The 34-year-old woman contends that when she complained to human resources and senior officials, she was first told to “let it roll off your back” and then was demoted.
The suit alleges a history of flirtatious remarks by Peterson that escalated into unwanted hugs, sexually tinged remarks and public humiliation.
“I deny the allegations, categorically, and look forward to confronting them in court,” Peterson said in an email.
Also named in the suit are the Pan and Parapan Am Games organizing committee, the Canadian Olympic Committee (a partner of the games) and three members of the executive team at TO2015. Morris is seeking $10 million in damages.
Peterson was Ontario premier from 1985 to 1990. He played a critical role in helping Toronto land the Pan Ams.