A Marin County, CA-based nurse recently resigned after she was asked to remove a “Free Palestine” badge she was wearing in support of humanitarian efforts in Gaza. The nurse, Yasmin Bishr, felt like she was forced to leave her job (and like she was singled out) due to possibly discriminatory actions by her employer.

This case, one surrounding both discrimination and the nurse's right to free speech, may have significant long-term effects on her career.

And she isn't alone. If you're a healthcare professional and you're worried about facing similar challenges, reach out to the Lento Law Firm at once for support defending your rights. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or fill out this brief form to tell us more about your case.

The Impact of Speech and Discrimination on Your License

Licensed nurses are held to incredibly high professionalism standards.

That said, this should have no impact on your right to free speech and your ability to advocate for timely causes or express your beliefs.

When Bishr decided to highlight Gaza's humanitarian issues by wearing her “Free Palestine” badge, she was told to remove it or risk disciplinary action. She resigned and claimed that the hospital had engaged in discriminatory actions.

Whether you're wondering about a similar incident involving global events or discrimination based on anything from race to religion, these types of disputes can escalate very, very quickly. Any allegations made or challenges issued can go to your state's licensing board, result in a detailed investigation into your past and present actions, and result in consequences ranging from warnings to license revocations and beyond.

How the Lento Law Firm's Professional License Defense Team Can Help

If you or a colleague is worried about being caught in a similar situation, it's important to understand that while your employer may be able to terminate your employment, they do not have the final say over your professional license. (That decision rests with your state's professional licensing board.) The licensing board cannot make your employer hire you back–but holding onto your license will make finding other employment much easier.

After an employer reports an employee (you) for professional misconduct, your state's board will assess and adjudicate the situation with its own criteria. If you can demonstrate that your employer was engaging in discriminatory action, you may be able to see your situation through to a much more successful outcome.

That is where the Professional License Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm can help. Our team will be ready to:

1. Help you understand the entire complaint process
2. Investigate any allegations against you
3. Navigate the process of working with or appealing your state's disciplinary board
4. Assist you as you perform any follow-up actions to defend your rights and safeguard your future!

If you are facing accusations of professional misconduct or discrimination, the Professional License Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm is ready to help. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or fill out this brief form to discuss your case.