Real Life Story of Pregnancy Discrimination

Heather, Factory Worker - Twin Cities, MN

Early in her pregnancy, Heather struggled with health issues which forced her to miss three weeks of work. Before returning, she spoke with her physician, who restricted her job duties, which called for her to lift up to 50 pounds, something she could no longer do safely. Her employer threatened to fire her if she didn't come back to work in a week. However, once it decided that it couldn't accommodate her, her supervisor told her to stay home until the doctor lifted the restrictions. A month later, her doctor approved her return to regular tasks, and she did so for the next 4 months. Shortly thereafter, Heather was hospitalized. The doctor ordered bed rest and recommended that she reduce her hours and suggested sitting instead of standing. Her employer strictly interpreted the doctor's instructions - determining that sitting was now a mandatory job requirement for her. Since there were no seated jobs available, the employer said it had no choice but to fire her. Heather sued her company on the belief that she had been discriminated against as a pregnant woman. The Attorney General's Office negotiated a settlement.

Special Report from the Department of Human Rights (Summer 2001)