This is an open letter to the public in regards to a circumstance around my termination “at will” from a job in Friday Harbor and how the “at-will” policy of Washington State explicitly protects the employers but not the employee.
Like so many in my position, I can defend myself and state that I did a great job, completed all the duties that were allotted me, and acted accordingly in the most efficient manner possible.
But my point in this article is to bring to light the injustice of the “at-will” policy of this state and to paint a picture of the employee’s perspective and how challenging this is for the working force here in our town.
The only clue I had about the impetus for my termination was a remark about cutting my hair or beard if I wanted to work the coveted day-shift. I said, “No.” I enjoy my hair, which I keep meticulously trimmed.
Then I was called over in the hall and informed that I was officially fired.
As a previous owner of a highly successful dementia-care facility here on the island for many years (and having worked successfully for nearly every Alzheimer’s care facility on the island) I would never simply “fire” someone without first trying to work with them on their particular challenges. Perhaps presenting them with a written notice of disapproval or speaking with them to arrive at a harmonious solution.
Upon my own sudden termination, I wanted to understand my rights. I immediately Googled, “Washington state law employee termination rights,” and found some surprising answers.
Washington State is what’s called an “at will” state. Employers are not required to give warnings or follow any particular steps in the “firing” process.
This in itself was an eye-opener.
But what happened to the good ole’ “island-spirit” of working things out? Of truly helping each other through challenges?
It seems that we have devolved to a sterile and unfeeling attitude in the workplace. Perhaps this “at will” firing is the “MO” in the rest of the world, but need it be the island way?
Christian Czingula
San Juan Island
