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Workplace Discrimination

Have you ever experienced any form of discrimination at your place of work because of your weight?

If so, what was your experience like?

What was the outcome of the situation?

  1. One place had me step on a scale and told me to come back when I'd lost 10 pounds. When I walked into the office of another company, the woman behind the desk said, Oh, I wish you had told me you were overweight. We have weight limits here.

    1. Thank you. I did get a job at a place that didn't care about my weight. Am now retired and had 2 other jobs where my weight was not an issue; never took anymore sick time than my thin co-workers. My job abilities had absolutely nothing to do with how much I weighed and I'm glad that most employers know that.

    2. It's comforting to hear that, . I hope those two other places eventually went out of business or instituted new policies that prevent that kind of discrimination. They probably missed out on some excellent employees, including you. Warmly, Lori (Team Member)

  2. I had a female mgr tell me to my face that I should lose weight because I mentioned my back was hurting. She was also aware that although overweight, I also struggle with chronic Spondylitis and Psoriatic Arthritis. I reported her w/ no regret.

    1. I am glad you reported her, . What an ignorant and rude thing to say. It's troublesome when people assume that excess weight is the cause of pain and weight loss is the solution. So often, it's the other way around -- pain, medications or limited mobility lead to weight gain or make weight loss difficult for people with chronic illnesses. You did everyone a favor by reporting her, I'm sure. Gentle hugs. - Lori (Team Member)

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