Woman fired from Meijer for appearing in 'Sicko'

Gee, and just when I was starting to think Meijer might be better than Wal-Mart. From MichaelMoore.com, reprinting an article in the Livingston, MI Press & Argus: Hartland grad says 'Sicko' got her fired

HOWELL, MI -- A Hartland High School graduate who appeared in the Michael Moore documentary "Sicko" says she was unfairly fired from her job as a manager at Meijer because of the views on health care she expressed in the film.

Adrian Campbell, a 25-year-old Waterford Township resident, said her new boss at the Northville Meijer store did not approve of her comments in the movie, which called for health-care reform in the United States.

"He called me anti-American," she said. "He was constantly calling me that."

Before I go any farther into this, let's take note of something here: This manager calls her "anti-American" for exercising her right to free speech. Or, rather, her right to say that something's not perfect in this country. That's what's wrong with so many people in this country these days-they believe they're living in a perfect country and that anyone pointing out any flaw is saying that America is a bad country.

"I said 'No, I'm not anti-American, I just think there should be a few changes in this country.' And then he let me go."

A call seeking comment from her supervisor was referred to Meijer's corporate office, which released a statement disputing Campbell's claim.

"Ms. Campbell's employment was in no way impacted because of her appearance in the movie 'Sicko' or any statements or beliefs she may have made or held about the movie or health care in our country," the statement reads.

"Nearly one month ago, Meijer announced a restructure plan that had been under development for several months which involved all of our 4,200 leadership team members.

"Ms. Campbell, like others, was offered another leadership position at Meijer but declined that offer, instead accepting a severance package. Upon completion of this company-wide restructure, over 500 Meijer team leaders have accepted severance packages."

The severance package equals out to five weeks of pay, Campbell said, adding she was not offered another leadership position at Meijer.

Note the italicized part above. This is going to be their excuse if she attempts to sue them for wrongful termination. Either that, or they'll simply say that there's no evidence whatsoever for her claim.

I love living in a country full of jingoistic drum-beaters. Really.