September 1, 2008

Hostile work environment

I know some of you have heard me complain about my job. The stresses, the amount of work that needs to be done, now add to the mix, a black girl with a chip on her shoulder. I have a coworker that I work really close with. We do the same thing only for different teams. Everyday I come in, I never know what kind of mood she is going to be in. Her emotions are up and down. Not to mention, she is constantly talking about me behind my back but loud enough for me to hear. Aren't we all adults here? We come to work for a paycheck, that's the bottom line. It feels like I'm back in high school dealing with a bully. The difference is, I don't back down to bullies. I honestly believe she is prejudice against white people. The reason I say this, our manager bought us some new charts for our patients. She bought white ones instead of black. She promptly apologized for the mistake and my coworkers response was, "White always comes first, didnt you know that?" Hello?? Now, if that wasn't a racist remark, I don't know what was. Considering both of us were white, we just looked at her and didn't know what to say. Does it always have to be about color? There are many black girls that work there but none of them acts like she does. I don't get it.

I'm not quite sure what to do or how to deal with this situation. We got in a heated argument the last day before my vacation and 10 minutes before it was time to leave. She was running her mouth, belittling me, and I came back with a response. It got pretty heated. This is something I don't need nor do I have patience for. If she could only hear herself, she might realize how offensive she is and how stupid she sounds. Maybe she is threatened by me? The fact that people are asking me questions now instead of always running to her all the time. She is one of those people that has 15 projects going at one time and cant complete any of them. Contrary to what she believes, she does not walk on water. I wrote a letter to the General Manager, as I wont be there to defend myself when this issue comes up, but I can only imagine the things she will say. Its not fair. There is so much negativity surrounding this job anyway, I just need to get out. Although, that might be what she is hoping for. Maybe I should stay just to spite her. Now, isnt that ridiculous? I have so many things going on in my life, why do I have to deal with this? Any suggestions as to what a girl should do? She needs to grow up and I need to be supported by my manager. I will let you know the outcome but anything you can add or suggest would be appreciated.

1 comment:

Michelle said...

I'm so sorry to hear this is happening to you. I to have been in the exact same situation with a few of my jobs. Yes, blacks are just as raciest as whites. It so sad to see this hatred still existing in this day and age. I wish I had some great advice to give you but I don't. My last job my boss was very verbally abusive. I ended up resigning right after my daughter was born. I was having some serious health problems due to my job. (Severe Anxiety Attacks)I worked there for over 6 years and loved my job. I just couldn't take the abuse anymore. I've come to the realization that there is at least one bully in every work place. You just can't avoid them. I wish I knew how to deal with them more constructively. Just be strong and don't let them get you down on yourself. I hope things get better for you. Take Care.