The Whistleblower

If you have never been in a “do I say something and lose my job or just stay silent and ignore the bad behavior?” situation, then be thankful. In today’s work environment, there is so much “under the table” activity that it is rather shocking.

I have been in the workforce for over 40 years now. Both in the public government sector as well as private for-profit corporations. I expected favoritism, political games and poor wages in government work, but to find that it is so much worse in the private sector was surprising. When government and private sector collide in partnership, wowza! Buckle up because the levels of depravity when it comes to overlooking laws and regulations may just give you whiplash, or great mental anguish and stress.

Employers, especially government entities write policies that restrict a person's freedom of speech. They make it a violation of policy to speak out publicly on social media and other platforms if you have criticisms of actions you have witnessed. Even though the 1st Amendment of the Constitution of the United States allows for religious freedom and speech, if you wish to do so about your employer or governor, then suddenly your income can be adversely affected. Not good, not good at all! If anyone actually cared, it would be illegal.

I understand that speech cannot contain threats, nor can or should a person falsely slander another. Threatening harm is also not allowed, understandably so. Outside of those preclusions, it is fair and fine to speak out. In fact, it is expected that in various situations, a person speaks out when illegal activity is afoot.

The power and influence that great wealth brings to a person will drive them to do evil things. Breaking the laws to accomplish those things is not acceptable and should be stopped. Being a ‘’whistleblower” is not a glamorous adventure. The employer will fight and deny wrongdoing and will do all it can to remove you so you cannot “taint the cool aid” with other employees. When it is government related, the governmental powers will use every tool in the toolbelt to silence you and “blacklist” you to the most painful degree they wish to dish out.

I recommend you speak up when you know laws are being broken. It is the right thing to do. You will likely be terminated, but if your employer is shady, why do you want to work for them any longer? Before you speak up, know the rules, the laws and be ready for the employer to retaliate. No matter what they say, you are now on the “list”. Check your state laws; not all states will protect you. Follow company policies regarding reporting wrongdoing. This helps you greatly, mostly when it comes to Unemployment Benefits and any lawsuits you may find yourself in.

Life is not fair, but it is better when the majority of the workforce strives to do the right thing always. If you struggle with knowing what the right thing to do is, perhaps this will help: if doing something will land you in front of a judge or your priest, don’t do it! The workplace is a place for work, not play. No games, and no manipulation allowed. You were hired to do a good job. That job includes following the rules, all of them.

Do Better!

Rev. Rico (6/12/25)