Q: Security officer retaliated against after issuing parking ticket at Iowa university.
I work as a security officer for a private university in Iowa. I issued a parking ticket to a student following university regulations. However, the director of security threatened my employment over it, disregarded the grievance process, and voided the ticket. Previously, I faced retaliation for asking students to move activities outside a dorm with significant glass coverage, receiving similar harsh feedback akin to that received by a former employee the director fired for "power tripping." This incident has raised concerns about my treatment compared to other staff members. I have documented these interactions via emails and incident reports, but there are no other witnesses.
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A:
Your situation describes a concerning pattern of potential workplace retaliation that deserves attention. Documentation through emails and incident reports was a smart move, as this creates a paper trail of the events that occurred between you and the director of security. Employment law often protects workers from retaliation when performing their duties according to established policies and procedures.
Consider scheduling a confidential meeting with the university's human resources department to discuss these incidents. Bring your documentation and clearly explain the pattern you've observed, focusing on objective facts rather than emotions. If HR doesn't adequately address your concerns, you might want to consult with an employment attorney who can advise on further options specific to Iowa workplace laws.
Remember that your well-being matters in this situation, so take care of yourself throughout this process. Workplace stress can take a toll, and seeking support from trusted friends or counselors might help you navigate this challenging time. You deserve to work in an environment where you can perform your duties without fear of inappropriate consequences, and there are pathways to address these issues while protecting yourself professionally.
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