Everyone is entitled to fair treatment in their workplace. Each person is different and their individual needs and safety have to be taken into account. Unfortunately, although businesses are expected to accommodate employee disabilities, many workers suffer discrimination as a result of their medical conditions. This can come in many forms, but all are violations of employee rights and should not be tolerated.
In California, a diabetic woman has been offered $180,000 by her former employer, Walgreens. She was fired from her 18 year position over a dispute involving a bag of chips costing only $1.39. She had consumed the chips during a hypoglycemic attack, in order to stabilize her blood sugar. However, as she ate the chips prior to paying for them, her position was terminated.
This was in spite of the fact that her employer had been aware of her Type II Diabetes for 13 years prior to the incident. According to attorneys, the company’s reaction was in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act and demonstrated that it had not taken steps to accommodate the woman’s disability. Walgreens now plans to revise its methods for accommodating disabled employees. The company also intends to supply anti-discrimination training.
Other workers in California can feel heartened by this outcome. It is important that discriminatory and inconsiderate employers are challenged when they behave inappropriately. If you feel you have been mistreated by your employer, or even a colleague, it is vital to take action so the matter does not continue.
An attorney can advise you on your rights and help you to determine whether you have a case. If so, they may also be able to assist you in pursuing compensation and justice for the violation of your employee rights.
The San Francisco Appeal, “Walgreens Settles Federal Disability Discrimination Lawsuit,” Dennis Culver, July 2, 2014