September 12th 2025.
A groundbreaking move at a New Jersey hospital has taken a sour turn as the first diversity officer, Dr. Chris Pernell, has filed a lawsuit against her former employer, University Hospital in Newark. This facility, known for its provision of care to uninsured patients, is the state's only public acute-care facility. Pernell alleges that she was unlawfully forced to leave her position in 2022 due to discrimination.
According to reports from NJ.com, Pernell's lawsuit states that she faced both sexist and racial discrimination and harassment during her time at the hospital. She claims that she was subjected to a hostile work environment and even faced a "frivolous scam investigation" after expressing interest in a higher position within the hospital.
Pernell's role as chief integration and health equity officer was no easy feat, as she worked tirelessly to implement diversity and inclusion initiatives within the facility. However, she soon found herself being scrutinized and criticized more than the other senior staff. In an interview, Pernell revealed that she constantly felt the need to justify her role and its importance.
She also faced additional challenges, such as being asked to "quell the concerns of the Black workers." In one incident, she was even asked to handle the aftermath when someone wrote "WLM" in a common work area. Despite her objections, the hospital chose to reassign the employee instead of taking appropriate disciplinary action.
Things took a turn for the worse when Pernell expressed interest in the CEO position that became available after the previous CEO left to work for the Biden administration. Despite receiving overwhelming support from over 100 leaders within the hospital, she was told that the governor's office would not back her candidacy. Pernell claims that she was told they would not be "strong-armed" into offering her the position.
Currently, Pernell holds the position of director of the Center for Health Equity at the NAACP. In her lawsuit, she is seeking reinstatement, back pay, benefits, compensatory damages, and legal fees. She also hopes that the hospital will take appropriate corrective action to prevent any further retaliation in the workplace.
It is unfortunate to see such discrimination and harassment occurring in a healthcare facility that is meant to provide care and support to all individuals. We can only hope that Pernell's lawsuit will bring about the necessary change and justice for her and others who may have faced similar treatment. Discrimination has no place in our society, and it is time for it to be eradicated once and for all.
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