Chalk up another win for an employee based on discrimination because of her religion, race, and age. Complainant had met with her supervisor and postmaster (both named as RMO’s) as well as the agency’s Workplace Environmental Specialist to try to resolve the issues within her facility. The Workplace Environment Specialist and postmaster concluded that “the parties needed to work these things out amongst themselves in the office.” The AJ found that “essentially (they) washed their hands of the situation, and sent a clear message to Complainant that she was on her own.”
In my opinion this demonstrates the futility and cynicism of even having a Workplace Environmental Specialist. Apparently their only job function is to suppress legitimate complaints of discrimination (which, by law ADR Specialist can’t do). As a result of this complaint, the AJ ordered that the agency require the RMO’s, including the Workplace Environmental Specialist, are to be “provide(d) EEO training on Title VII and ADEA requirements, specifically including religious accommodation; race, age and religious discrimination and harassment; and the proper process to follow after receiving a complaint of discrimination and/or harassment.” What? Apparently Workplace Environmental Specialists aren’t required to have this training before they encumber a position that is supposed to resolve workplace environment problems. Just another useless $70,000 a year management position at a time when the Postal Service is in dire financial straights.
My editorial opinion aside, I just wanted to share with the skeptics that EEO complaints of discrimination can be won. So raise your glasses and offer a toast as this is a win for everyone.