Skip to content 
On Wednesday, People.com reported that Real Housewives of New York City star Racquel Chevremont has filed a $10 million lawsuit against her former fiancée, acclaimed artist Mickalene Thomas. In legal documents filed on August 8, Chevremont accuses Thomas of “years of exploitation, nonpayment, and unlawful conduct” during their professional and personal relationship, which spanned a decade.
According to the filing, Chevremont—an art curator and consultant—played a central role in Thomas’ career from 2012 to 2022. She claims she served as a strategic advisor, gallery liaison, and negotiator of multimillion-dollar deals. Despite her contributions, Chevremont alleges she was never fairly compensated and that Thomas diverted funds and business opportunities from their joint venture into a separate entity.
Allegations of Quid Pro Quo Harassment
In addition to financial grievances, Chevremont alleges that Thomas created “a hostile and abusive work environment,” including quid pro quo harassment. Court documents state that although Chevremont ended their romantic relationship in 2020, the two continued working together. During this time, Chevremont claims, Thomas pressured her to rekindle their relationship and ultimately retaliated by firing her when she refused.
“The causes of action asserted include breach of contract, unjust enrichment, quantum meruit, conversion, sexual harassment and retaliation,” the filing states.
The lawsuit argues that Thomas’ behavior violated both New York State and New York City Human Rights Laws.
The Complex Reality for Survivors in Intimate Partnerships
Chevremont’s case highlights a painful truth for many survivors of sexual harassment: the dynamics become even more complicated when the perpetrator is a romantic partner, spouse, or fiancée. In these situations, survivors often face blurred boundaries between personal and professional life, where coercion or retaliation may be both emotional and financial. The fear of losing a relationship, career opportunities, or income can make it even harder to speak up. Chevremont’s claims of retaliation after refusing to reconcile illustrate the unique challenges survivors in intimate partnerships encounter when harassment occurs.
A High-Profile Partnership Unravels
Chevremont and Thomas first met in 2002 and went on to become a celebrated couple in the art world. Together, they launched the project Deux Femme Noirs in 2018, designed to create space for women, people of color, and queer voices in the arts. The pair got engaged in 2019, but their engagement ended the following year.
Chevremont, a mother of two, has since moved forward with her personal life. She is now engaged to her partner Mel, a forensic neuropsychologist, and shared the story of her proposal on RHONY last fall.
As the lawsuit proceeds, it raises broader questions about the intersection of power, relationships, and accountability, even in high-profile and seemingly progressive creative spaces.
When sexual harassment happens in the context of a marriage, engagement, or intimate relationship, it creates unique challenges for survivors. The pressure to remain silent can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. If you or someone you know has experienced harassment or abuse in a personal or professional setting, you may have legal options.
Learn more about your rights here.
