How do you work with an extremist?

Question

I work at a very small medical practice. My coworker is an anti-abortion, extreme right wing and racist person. I can't stand being alone with her in the office and frankly, I don't believe it is appropriate to voice her opinions so freely in the workplace.

The other day, I was irritated about some protesters vandalizing public property in order to get their message across. (I don't think anyone has the right to do so). It had nothing to do with the message itself, but rather the fact that vandalism is not acceptable.

Well, this coworker yelled and screamed at me (after showing up 2 hours late for work) and then left 5 minutes later claiming that I was an idiot and she couldn't stand to be in the same room with me. Then, the next day, she didn't call and didn't show. She is by FAR the favorite here, so I don't know what to do next. Find another job?

Answer 1

wow, suks to be you, agree totally about the protesters they have a right to speak but not disrupt other peoples lives and destroy property to do it, thats terrorism, so is screaming in the workplace, if she is the favorite you cant go to your boss and if its that small alerting the authorities will probably have a detrimental effect on job longivity. mite keep your head down and let her self destructive behaviour do its work. definately start looking its easier to get a job if you are employed.  good luck

Answer 2

no you don't have to leave, she should. tell your boss that it makes you uncomfortable to work with her because she is always expressing political views in the office. that is not allowed in the work place. i am anti abortion but i know better than to discuss it in my workplace. it just makes people uncomfortable. ask if maybe your boss could have a talk with her or maybe you could switch shifts with someone. but definitely don't leave, we're in a recession.