Who am I?

I am a female firefighter, both paid and volunteer for 20 years. I am also a mother of a wonderful seven year old boy, who wants to be a firefighter and police man. 

My case

I became pregnant in 2009, at that time I was a Lieutenant (Lt) in the Grantville Fire Department, I informed my chief and nothing changed as far as my duties as a Lt before and after having my son. In 2013 we moved to Lower Swatara Twp and began running Lower Swatara Fire Department. In 2014, I became a Lt in the department, Chief DeHart sent me to school for Fire and Public Education so I could better our fire prevention program. In Dec 2015, I was approached by the three chiefs and asked if I would be the fire prevention officer and put my Lt duties elsewhere. I was hesitant but said yes. 

On Jan 4 2016, before our Company meeting I asked the three chiefs why I wasn't Lt anymore and they proceeded to explain to me, without talking to me prior, that because I had a son they felt I needed to stay home and be a mother instead of being at the fire house. This went on for about one half hour and that was the only reason I was given that I was demoted. 

Why is this case important?

This case isn't just about me - it's about making the workplace more fair for all mothers and fighting back against the discrimination mothers face at work.

Please support this important case!