Whitman, former CEO of eBay, did not admit any wrongdoing in settling with Nicky Diaz Santillan who worked for Whitman's family for nine years.
"I'm speaking out today because I want other housekeepers to know that they a right to be paid for the hard work they do every day."
Diaz Santillan says she came forward so other housekeepers would not face discrimination.
Meg Whitman did not attend Wednesday's hearing.