Employee has preferred pronouns, but boss and employees won’t commit to them: Is that the company’s fault? “Stop it! Just stop it!” said Dustin Bridges, hollering over his shoulder and moving quickly toward his boss’ door, his voice loud enough to announce his arrival. “You looking for me?” Manager Perry Baker said before Dustin could […]
He’s Mean and Rude, But Is It Illegal To Be a Jerk At Work?
When employee is fired, the jerk at work gets the company sued for a hostile environment “I don’t think I’ve ever met a bigger jerk at work,” said Delores Hedgeland. “If my Christian soul would allow me to hate someone, he’d be first on the list.” “OK, OK, Delores. Let’s start this conversation again,” said […]
‘I Hate This Music!’ Can Minor Annoyance Actually Be Full-Blown Sexual Harassment?
Employee says it’s impossible to escape graphic and violent music at work “Does it ever stop playing? Does anyone else ever say, ‘Turn down this crappy music?’” Bridget Boyer hollered as she walked into her boss’ office, cupping her hands over her ears. “It’s supposed to be motivating,” said Jerome Moffat. “You’re relatively new here, […]
Employee Says Retaliation Is Reason Behind Firing: Boss Says, ‘You’re Just Late!’
What started as harassment ends in retaliation, employee insists “We have schedules for a reason. Customers depend on us. You can’t be late,” said Manager Andy Davis. “And if we can’t depend on you, we need to find someone we can depend on.” Employee Brenda Matterhorn stood with her hands on her hips, staring at […]
Creep Gets Moved: Is That Enough Action Against an Alleged Harasser?
More than one employee says the alleged harasser needs to go, yet the company keeps him “This is beyond creepy!” hollered Samantha Rhoades. “It’s downright disgusting. It’s vulgar. And I’m sick of it.” “OK, OK, calm down, Sam,” said Jude Lawe, her manager. “I get it. In fact, it’s not the first time I’ve heard […]
‘He Only Said It Twice’: Is That Really Racial Harassment?
Boss questions the authenticity of racial harassment claim “Normally, I’m not one to look a man in the eye and tell him what I’m thinking,” said Mario Gonzalez. “But I don’t believe this is the place or time for confrontation, especially with my supervisor.” “OK, Mario,” said Division VP Denise Audi. “What’s going on?” Mario […]
Transgender Employee Says Harassment Response Was Slow: Can Company Win?
Boss makes harassment response a priority, but is that enough? “I can’t even believe this is happening to me,” said employee CeCe Daniels. “I thought people were more accepting of this – of me – these days.” “I am. And I hope you know I’m an ally,” said CeCe’s manager, Lisa Volpe. CeCe nodded, her […]
Retaliation? Her hours were cut after she reported harassment
HR manager Lynn Rondo was signing up for a spin class – part of her New Year’s resolution to get in shape – when company attorney Eric Bressler knocked on her door. “Sorry to jump right in without even asking how your holidays were,” Eric said. “But Jessica Gray is suing us for retaliation.” Negatively […]
The supervisor mistakes that can lead to a retaliation lawsuit
An employee says treatment is revenge for filing a complaint. Marty waved Sue into his office and motioned for her to sit down. Then he began: “I just wanted to let you know that we’re tightening up the budget a bit, and you won’t be getting any overtime work for a while.” “OK,” she said as […]
Co-worker kept staring at her; Must boss put a stop it?
HR manager Lynn Rondo was finishing her first cup of coffee when company attorney Eric Bressler knocked on her door. “Hi, Lynn,” he said. “Got a minute?” Lynn stood. “Sure. I was just going to get more coffee. Walk with me.” Lynn and Eric headed for the break room. “I wanted to talk to you […]