Dear Friend,

Luisa* worked in a supermarket in New York City, making $10.50 per hour. When her employer found out she was pregnant, they harassed her, made discriminatory comments, cut her hours, and penalized her for taking her regular breaks.

Luisa asked if she could avoid climbing ladders because of the risk of miscarriage from a fall. HR ignored her request. Her direct supervisor recommended she go on unpaid leave until the baby was born, potentially eliminating her main source of income. Luisa refused. Soon after, Luisa was fired after requesting a change in her schedule to attend one prenatal appointment. 

Losing her job while expecting a baby was devastating. She had to rely on the support of family members, and sought public assistance just to make ends meet.

We represented Luisa and, after laying out the myriad legal violations the employer faced—including failing to provide her with reasonable pregnancy accommodations and earned sick time—the employer agreed to compensate Luisa. The supermarket also agreed to give notice of all relevant federal, state, and local policies so that employees are aware of their workplace rights.

Stories like Luisa’s are all too common. A Better Balance will continue to hold employers accountable when they discriminate against workers like her, but we need your help.

In Solidarity,

Dina & Sherry

*Names have been changed to protect confidentiality.