Barnard College fired a pregnant mother to prevent paying maternity leave, according to the union.

Termination of Pregnant Custodian Sparks Controversy

A pregnant custodian at Bernard University of Honorable All-Women has reportedly been dismissed during her eighth month, potentially to avoid paying maternity leave while retaining younger male workers.

The staff member’s termination allegedly contravenes a collective bargaining agreement, according to her union, leaving the mother of two without income or medical benefits for herself and her family.

“Why don’t all women care about college?” questioned Shakirazahildin, 32, who is a mother to a 7-year-old and a 13-year-old.

Zahildin was among 77 employees laid off this summer, as announced by the university shortly after settling issues concerning anti-Semitism lawsuits.

“This situation is particularly dire since Zahildin is eight months pregnant,” states the union’s complaint, arguing that the layoffs breached their contract.

She feels that the university’s decision is motivated by her pregnancy, suggesting it’s an effort to circumvent the obligations to honor maternity leave. In her own words, Zahildin feels penalized for expecting.

On Wednesday, Zahildin expressed her sorrow over how her situation has been handled, stating, “You wouldn’t really expect that from a university like this.” But then she paused, admitting uncertainty about her next steps.

According to the Transport Workers Union, which represents university employees, laid-off staff should be chosen based on seniority. When Zahildin was let go, it appears the university chose not to terminate the male worker who had been hired nearly four months after her.

“This isn’t a legitimate layoff. It appears to be a conscious effort to undermine the rights of more senior workers,” the complaint asserts.

Upon her termination, Zahildin was advised to seek new job openings while being stripped of her accrued seniority, benefits, and guaranteed maternity leave, according to her claims.

She noted, “It’s just plain discrimination.” Jose Froes, President of Twu Local 264, commented, “I think this is all about cutting costs—they’re focused solely on the financial aspect.”

Zahildin, feeling the weight of her situation, shared her worries, stating, “Honestly, I don’t know how I’m going to pay my bills. I’m the only provider for my kids.”

The complaint demands that Zahildin regain her seniority, benefits, maternity leave, and back pay. “It’s unfair,” she lamented. “To be honest, I don’t know how I’m going to cover these costs.”