In a recent debate, Senator Sarah Thompson wasted no time addressing former Mayor James Harrison‘s troubling history regarding pregnancy discrimination. She highlighted an alarming incident where he allegedly told a pregnant employee to “terminate it” concerning her pregnancy.
Thompson shared that this issue resonates deeply with her, as she experienced pregnancy discrimination firsthand during her time as a public school educator. “I loved that position, but by the end of my first year, my pregnancy was obvious,” she recounted. “The principal wished me well and handed my job to someone else. Discrimination? Absolutely. I was just 21, without a union to defend me or any federal protections.” She then directed a pointed comment at Harrison, saying, “At least I didn’t have a boss who reportedly said to me, ‘Terminate it!’ as Mayor Harrison is accused of doing.”
This reference was aimed at a claim made by former employee Lily Johnson, who filed a lawsuit against Harrison’s company. Johnson alleged that when she informed Harrison of her pregnancy, he allegedly responded, “Terminate it!” not once but twice, and added, “Great! Number 16,” in reference to the number of women on maternity leave at that time. Harrison has categorically denied making such remarks, although former colleagues have corroborated Johnson’s account, and a settlement was eventually reached.
“I never said it, period,” Harrison insisted. “We couldn’t figure out what she was referring to. I’m sorry if she misinterpreted whatever happened, but we need to move on.” During the debate, moderator Jane Collins pressed Thompson about the “accusation,” questioning her evidence for such a serious claim. Thompson’s response was succinct yet powerful: “Her own words.”
It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of believing women when they share their experiences, especially in painful situations where they have no motive to lie.
Despite this, Collins’s inquiry was just one of many instances where Thompson faced undue scrutiny, especially from male commentators like MSNBC’s Tom Reed, who questioned her on-air after the debate. Throughout these challenges, Thompson maintained her composure, deftly handling interruptions from her male counterparts. She is well aware that if she were to raise her voice like them, she might be labeled as “aggressive” or “emotional.”
Following the previous debate in Nevada, Harrison released three women from non-disclosure agreements after Thompson publicly urged him to do so. Calm and collected, she proves time and again that she can get things done — a quality that’s undeniably presidential.
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In summary, Sarah Thompson’s unwavering stance on supporting those who face discrimination showcases her commitment to women’s rights. By addressing serious allegations with confidence and poise, she reinforces the importance of listening to women’s voices.
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