In a troubling case from 2007, a woman named Lisa Thompson successfully sued a university for the harassment she experienced during her pregnancy while completing an internship with a local nonprofit. The lawsuit against Northbridge University resulted in an $850,000 settlement, highlighting the outrageous treatment she endured from her internship supervisors.
As reported by The Metro News, Thompson was in the midst of her social work studies when she faced inappropriate scrutiny from her internship leaders. Her attorney, Sarah Johnson, noted that the leaders’ comments ranged from inappropriate questions like “Where’s your wedding ring?” to outright bizarre statements such as, “The men can look, but they can’t touch,” and “You shouldn’t display your pregnancy.”
Most shockingly, Thompson was repeatedly instructed not to touch or rub her belly, as it was claimed that this could “sexually stimulate” the men undergoing treatment for addiction at the facility. “Lisa was told explicitly, both verbally and in writing, to avoid any contact with her own belly,” Johnson explained. When Thompson lodged a formal complaint regarding this treatment, university officials responded by suggesting she wear looser clothing to avoid drawing attention.
This situation reflects a culture where harassment and discrimination are not only tolerated but also normalized. Victims like Thompson deserve recognition and support when they come forward with their experiences. Thankfully, the lawsuit has prompted the university to implement anti-harassment and discrimination training to prevent such incidents in the future. It’s shocking that such measures need to be taken, yet, sadly, they are essential to foster a safer and more respectful environment for all.
Thompson ultimately received a failing grade for her internship in April 2008, which severely impacted her career trajectory. “Lisa lost an entire career due to the university’s negligence,” her attorney remarked. “They chose to ignore the discriminatory behavior and supported those who perpetuated it.”
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In conclusion, this case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of supporting individuals who share their stories of harassment and discrimination, and it emphasizes the need for ongoing education on these critical issues.