Former Rockwell Collins Employee Sues Company

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Former Rockwell Collins Employee Sues Company

By Claire Kellett

CEDAR RAPIDS - A former employee is suing Rockwell Collins in Cedar Rapids for violating his civil rights. Thomas Meeker worked there most recently as a senior systems engineer. He claims the company forced him to take part in a diversity training course that discussed things like accepting homosexuality.

According to court documents, Meeker says his Christian faith believes homosexuality is a sin, so he objected to the training last May. After several meetings ending in disagreement, he claims Rockwell Collins sent him a termination letter the following month.

The documents also say Rockwell Collins told Meeker before letting him go that they did not expect him to change his beliefs, but rather respect his co-workers.







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Saturday, May 24 at 11:09 PM Craig wrote ...

Interestingly, homosexuality is not a protected class in Iowa but Meeker's religious beliefs are. Meeker didn't say he wouldn't respect and work with gays, only that he couldn't "embrace and celebrate" homosexuality. The "gay" issue is clouding the real issue: Meeker is being fired for his religious beliefs. Period. End of case. If Rockwell truly believes in diversity (tolerance of religious beliefs being part of that diversity) they'll settle out of court for millions of dollars and apologize.

Saturday, May 24 at 8:02 PM Oops... wrote ...

Hehe.....oops....come on "Mr. Meeker" if you are going to sue...don't be dumb. [Stephen L.] Brandt stated that the concerns of the Defendant’s management involved Meeker’s June 7 e-mail and Meeker’s objections to participating in diversity training. … Meeker informed those at the meeting that his June 7 e-mail was not the most respectful way to convey his views and gave his assurance that he would not write any similar messages in the future. … oops...bet you wish you hadn't sent that email.

Tuesday, May 20 at 9:59 PM Does Rockwell Collins actively hire gays? wrote ...

I am looking for a job...does Rockwell Collins actively hire gays? I would love to work at a company with other gays. It would make the work day go fast and having other gays there would make dating much easier. Does the company promote gay single activities? Can couples request to be on the same team? Thanks again for highlighting Rockwell Collinsa as a gay friendly company. I will email this fact to a number of gay discussion boards so other gays know about Rockwell Collins. Gay Power!

Tuesday, May 20 at 8:21 PM mudkips wrote ...

Teresa, you are inventing and arguing for a fictional scenario. The company policy is that everyone has to attend this training. Every employee has to obey the company policy, or else they can work somewhere else. In other words... You know the rules. And so do I.

Tuesday, May 20 at 5:16 PM Moderator wrote ...

Common sense would dictate no one CAN be told what their beliefs are going to be. An employer can only enforce policy. Quit with the attacks, you show your own true colors. It's pretty simple, the workplace should be a non threatening environment to work in. That does not mean I have to accept a gay or Christian lifestyle, it just means I will treat people fairly at work. Working in a diversified environment does NOT mean I have to accept their lifestyles. I doubt anyone here has facts anyway.

Tuesday, May 20 at 4:39 PM Romans1 wrote ...

Just because Mr. Meeker didn't want to go to diversity training doesn't mean he HATES gays. I wonder how much money Mr. Meeker has freely given because of his faith to missions devoted to working with those afflicted with AIDS and HIV - both domestic (where AIDS is primarily limited to homosexuals) and abroad (where it isn't)? Perhaps he's making a stand precisely because he DOES have compassion and has seen the devastation associated with a lifestyle that is contrary to what God's word says.

Tuesday, May 20 at 4:34 PM Thoroughly Annoyed wrote ...

I find it interesting that those who are so vocal about their beliefs really don't know squat about the actual case.Mudkips is right, people are missing the point. This is simply about an employee who CHOSE not to acknowledge that not everyone does not share his beliefs and that that's okay and encouraged by the company. That's what diverse thinking does, it opens your mind so that even if you may not share anything in common with another human being, you still should treat them as human being.

Tuesday, May 20 at 4:09 PM Teresa wrote ...

Let say Mr. Meeker treated everyone in R.C. with the utmost respect. Went to work each day did his job to the best of his ability, didn't cause any trouble, didn't mention that he was a Christian to any of his workers. Attended the D.T. felt it went against his beliefs refused to sign the paper or continue the training. And was fired. Do you still feel this is right? My point is why is the training sooo important if he was already treating people with respect?? I don't get it?

Tuesday, May 20 at 3:33 PM mudkips wrote ...

Most of the people here are missing the point. The point of the training is yes, people are different, but you still have to act professionally with them at work. Clay has made it very clear he supports gay rights and benefits. If you disagree you can go work for someone whose faith more closely aligns with your own. I was in a skip level with Clay where he specifically said things like orientation differences are distractions that do not belong in the workplace.

Tuesday, May 20 at 3:15 PM Dot wrote ...

Wow, can not believe the dialog here. In many ways it is a good thing that people are talking. I find it sad that there are still so many people that choose, yes CHOOSE to hate. Just as you think we CHOOSE this lifestyle. Personnally, I treat others as I wish to be treated - that is how I was brought up. I work at Rockwell and have for 21 years. Most do not stay that long at a job unless they have been treated fairly and I have. Mr Meeker made a choice not to treat all equally, period.

Tuesday, May 20 at 3:12 PM romans1 wrote ...

Mr. Meeker likely has more compassion for others - including homosexuals than most people. He's probably the one who would go to a homosexual's aid if help were needed. This has nothing to do with love. Yes, Jesus said to love others. He also said to set nothing wicked before your eyes (or ears) and Paul said to abstain from every form of evil. I suspect if all of the people who silently objected to the training refused to go, Rockwell would have had a real dilemna on their hands.

Tuesday, May 20 at 12:23 PM Standing Up wrote ...

Tom congradulations for standing up for what you believe. IT WAS ADAM AND EVE not ADAM AND STEVE!

Tuesday, May 20 at 11:42 AM Never Fails to Amaze wrote ...

Me that those Christians that are so quick to point out the passages in the Bible (A book that has been translated and/or revised to fit past kings/ruler's beliefs) but are less zealous in following the other "rules" (everything from not eating pork to death to Adulterers). I'm glad the Jesus I've chosen to follow taught love thy neighbor and judge not lest thee be judged.

Tuesday, May 20 at 11:35 AM Holy Moly wrote ...

As a Christian, it saddens me to hear the comments that my fellow Christians preach. Why is it we focus on the few issues that separate us rather than the majority which unite us? We need to find a way to love each other, despite our differences. We are all sinners and the Lord is the only one who will judge us in the end. Let us not forget that the more we learn from each other the richer our lives will be. We do not have to agree, but we do need to live with each other with mutual respect

Tuesday, May 20 at 11:12 AM JMT wrote ...

So what if the Bible says homosexuality is a sin? That really has nothing to do with business and how publicly traded companies should be run.

Tuesday, May 20 at 10:22 AM Thoroughly Annoyed wrote ...

Does anyone know what the term GLOBAL means? In today's world, companies, including many here in Iowa, do business all over the world to just keep up with their competitors. What diversity training does is help employees understand and respect that different cultures, races, beliefs etc. exist and to be competitive we must tolerate and respect them. No wonder Iowa gets so much flack for being a naive and narrow-minded state..too many people are!

Tuesday, May 20 at 9:52 AM People are Clueless wrote ...

I would venture to guess that the majority of people on this wall have never even taken the Rockwell Collins Diversity classes. If you have, you may realize that the company is not asking anyone to change their beliefs, simply to act in a professional, respectful manner to their colleagues. It does not focus only on homosexuality, but race, gender, age, other cultures, etc. Its sad that so many so-called "Christians" give the rest of us a bad name by being so intolerant and ignorant.

Tuesday, May 20 at 9:46 AM Jonny wrote ...

When you are working for a company, you keep your religon to yourself, especially if you want to have a job. I don't care what your faith is, it has no place in the public work place. If you don't like the companies policy then work somewhere else. Meeker's rights were not violated, he was doing the violating and rightfully was canned.

Tuesday, May 20 at 9:43 AM Teresa wrote ...

We all co exits as it is. You don't hear of gays being discriminated against on the local news. Or that they are losing their jobs. All was fine, there really is no reason for the diversity training in the first place. The diversity trainings purpose is to force their beliefs onto those that do not believe the same way they do. And that is were they are wrong...I'd be willing to bet Mr. Meeker was an outstanding employee. They only problem they had with him was he was a strong Christian.

Tuesday, May 20 at 12:27 AM Blah wrote ...

There are some really funny comments on here. Anyone who equates two adults who love each other as being on par with pedophilia, rape, stealing, etc. is just plain silly. I would further the argument but there's nothing to it. It's two human beings in love. Get over it.

Monday, May 19 at 10:39 PM here's some advice.... wrote ...

don't go looking for a job at Target they embrace gays...8:38 pm...this may be a great place for you to work!...

Monday, May 19 at 10:09 PM Bad Move by Rockwell wrote ...

Intentional or not, Rockwell is projecting the image that they value homosexuality over traditional morals and/or Christian beliefs. This comes from the same company that now has "Winter Break", which just happens to occur around Dec 25.

Monday, May 19 at 9:52 PM Diversity2 wrote ...

This training appears to be preconditioning people to act and believe a certain set of parameters such that the company (Rockwell) can singlehandedly manipulate the employment market of Cedar Rapids and the "corridor". With significant financial and personnel backing to the Diversity Focus organization ( http://www.diversityfocus.org/About_Us_Board_Of_Directors.aspx ), it would appear that they are attempting to sway employment in the local area.

Monday, May 19 at 9:31 PM Diversity wrote ...

Well it would appear that Rockwell diversity training is for what Rockwell would value for diversity. I believe from this story Rockwell makes no mention that Hitler's Holocaust could be considered a diverse (but inhumane) act. So the teachings and actions of all diversity whether sane or not are truly not represented within Rockwell's training. So it truly is not a diversity training program, but rather a representation of whom they want to employ.

Monday, May 19 at 8:58 PM Cowgirl wrote ...

Again, no one cares if you are gay (don't ask dont tell). Just show up for work and do your job - gay or not.

Monday, May 19 at 8:42 PM Dave wrote ...

Try letting someone go from a job because they are gay and see what happens. LAWSUIT

Monday, May 19 at 8:38 PM Rockwell Collins..a homosexual company? wrote ...

So if I am reading this correctly, is this saying that Rockwell Collins is a homosexual company? If so, I as a homosexual want to work for them. Is Cedar Rapids a great place for homosexuals? How many gay bars do you have? Is there gay friendly housing available? Thanks for the tip...I would never have expected Iowa to be gay friendly.

Monday, May 19 at 8:25 PM timohoward wrote ...

Said so perfectly Theresa

Monday, May 19 at 7:46 PM Anonymous wrote ...

First I would like to mention I have personally taken the diversity training, this is not a document but only a 30 min video on the computer that takes very little time out of your day and at the end there is nothing to sign, only 3 short questions to make sure you payed attention.

Monday, May 19 at 7:38 PM Get Over It wrote ...

All you bible reading people need to get over it. Maybe we should classify all people that go to church as crazy and cult people. Who cares what a persons sexual orientation is, we are all people that have the right to live our lives as we see fit. This guy was just a bigot.

Monday, May 19 at 6:34 PM rajj wrote ...

It is my understanding after reading all of thee above comments, mr. meecker did attend the meeting and they wanted him to sign this paper that (more or less) said ,IF You Don't sign this paper(no matter what it said), then you would be Fired !!! If that means (Conform to us or else) then I'm all for what Mr. Meecker is doing and has done to show us all what our society is coming to!!!!

Monday, May 19 at 5:43 PM definition clarity wrote ...

For all you that commented about "tolerance". That is a loaded word these days, and redefined over the years unfortunately. So lets get Biblical truth on track here...myself as a Christian and the Bible teaches to hate the sin (for example, homosexuality) but love the sinner (someone who lives out the sin). Same is true for any sin for that matter. Jesus never taught to love the sin, ever! He DID love the sinners, that is so very true, so much he laid down his life for them...me included.

Monday, May 19 at 5:39 PM Roger wrote ...

I stand with this Christian gentleman against all mention of homosexuality in his workplace. This is a filthy lifestyle which should be made unlawful and listed as that of a sex offender in our state. I applaud this gentleman and will wait patiently for the outcome of his lawsuit. Its time men stood up against abortion and homosexuality. I stand firmly against both.

Monday, May 19 at 5:01 PM Informed wrote ...

According to this article, Meeker did in fact behave in a disrespectful manner. http://lookinginatiowa.wordpress.com/2008/05/15/us-courts-former-rockwell-collins-engineer-claims-terminated-over-diversity-training-participation-and-religious-objections-to-homosexuality/ I have taken diversity training from Rockwell Collins, and in no way does it ask you to celebrate or embrace homosexuality. It merely requires you to treat fellow employees with respect.

Monday, May 19 at 4:55 PM Give me a break wrote ...

Read the story before you write your opinions-key prase:"discussed things like accepting homosexuality" homosexuality is one part of the diversity training, the rest could be on race, cultural or religious differences. 10:32 PM Shannon has it right-this is about the company preventing lawsuits against them-all Mr. Meeker was asked to do is sign something saying he wouldn't discriminate against people for such reasons, if he does not sign the company has no choice but to let him him go; its a CYA

Monday, May 19 at 4:23 PM Teresa wrote ...

Well said Michael!!

Monday, May 19 at 4:04 PM John wrote ...

Where does it stop!! The Bible explicitily defines homosexuality as a sin. Any one who says otherwise is not following God but the secular society. Are companies to respect every other type of sin that is out there. Should we support respect child predators, thiefs, rapists. I highly doubt that a company would knowingly hire someone of this nature.

Monday, May 19 at 3:46 PM anonymous wrote ...

The issue is not attacking the beliefs of Mr. Meeker, the issue is that Rockwell offers this trainign to ensure a peaceful and respectful workplace to all, no matter their sexual preferences. If Mr. Meeker said he was against embracing the idea due to his faith the lawsuit is valid because he expressed his beliefs. However, if he never expressed himself and simply refused that is taken as a sign of bias on Mr. Meeker's part.

Monday, May 19 at 3:25 PM anon wrote ...

First off, I don't know this characted, but could his termination been from poor reviews caused by being overly argumentative. And second, I think that if christianity has taught us anything, its that gay IS acceptable, but only if you are a priest and don't get caught.

Monday, May 19 at 3:20 PM AGREED wrote ...

BLACK MARK ON ROCKWELL HAS SAID IT ALL!

Monday, May 19 at 3:19 PM Michael wrote ...

Words mean things. As Christians we are called to love others because Christ first loved us. That means homosexuals, and anyone else practicing something the Bible addresses as sin - and to do so sincerely! But, when asked to state that someone "embraces and affirms" something - that is another matter - it is asking not for tolerance and understanding and love, but for adopting a new set of beliefs and to accept something else as true. Truth statements only appear relative.

Monday, May 19 at 2:28 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Just because he doesn't believe in homosexuality doesn't mean he hates homosexuals and doesn't accept them in the work place. Unless his views effect his or their work then there is no reason for it. Forcing an employee to go to this "training" is complete rubbish. How about Rockwell Collins respect his religious views. His religion says that homosexuality is wrong, why should he be forced to go to a class that preaches homosexuality is is good?

Monday, May 19 at 2:24 PM Black Mark on Rockwell wrote ...

Who is being discriminated against? Seems like the one with a moral faith is...Rockwell is standing on the side of a perverted lifestyle--throwing out a good employee sends a BAD message to all Rockwell employees and customers. Christians are taught to love homosexuals just as much as anyone--we're all sinners--however NO ONE SHOULD BE FORCED TO BE EDUCATED ON CORRUPT AND IMMORAL BEHAVIOR. I hope all Christian Rockwell employees stand up and let their voices be heard about this.

Monday, May 19 at 2:22 PM Understanding wrote ...

I like several others here, actually have known Mr. Meeker for a long time. He didn't discriminate against anyone at his place of work, and he's not being accused of that at the core of this issue. What he refused to do was agree to a statement that said he "accepted and embraced" homosexuality in the workplace, which he could not do with a clear conscience. That has nothing to do with bigotry or the way he conducted himself with coworkers who might be gay.

Monday, May 19 at 1:58 PM Comon sense wrote ...

No he doesn't have to conform and now he doesn't have to wait in line to cash his pay check either. Don't like the company policy fine, keep your mouth shut and do what your told or go work some where else, his choice and hopefully they will toss his lawsuit out for being a waste of our tax time.

Monday, May 19 at 1:56 PM To Theresa wrote ...

Your example makes no sense in this matter. No one asked Mr Meeker to sign up to volunteer to be in a gay parade or to " celebrate" the gay lifestyle. He simply was expected to attend a class or training about being tolerant. The Jews, Muslims, atheists, agnostics etc, are no asked to sign anything forcing them to celebrate Christmas - but they must not discriminate against those who do. I think with each passing day and news story, this is one of the least tolerant, most bigoted states ever.

Monday, May 19 at 1:37 PM Old School wrote ...

Diversity, conceptually is nonsense. What's necessary is for employees to respect each other on a PROFESSIONAL level. Where I work we have people from all over the world with a multitude of backgrounds, beliefs, etc. I'm conservative, heterosexual, and a Christian. I wish everyone was. My personal beliefs, however, are irrelevat. I respect my fellow workers because of their professional competance, which is what matters. Professionalism is the foundation for a harmonious work environment.

Monday, May 19 at 12:39 PM Anonymous wrote ...

It is best for everyone in a working environment to be free of harassment. If people have these views of hate, that is their problem. But if they bring these views to the workplace, it creates a hostile work environment. It doesn't matter if he brought these values to the work place, but by not forcing all employees to go through this type of training it opens Rockwell to lawsuits by people on the other side of the fence. Good job Rockwell on standing firm. KCRG presented facts, nothing else.

Monday, May 19 at 11:41 AM Enginerd wrote ...

Is respecting your co-workers really so much to ask? In a business setting people should keep their private beliefs private. Be a bigot on your own time.

Monday, May 19 at 11:15 AM JMT wrote ...

To "Slightly confused": There is a line. Being a "petifile" is a crime. Being homosexual is not.

Monday, May 19 at 11:15 AM Hope wrote ...

Maybe he should have talked to his union stuard before not signing and they would have explained this form and class to him. I hope he has a good lawyer!

Monday, May 19 at 11:12 AM Teresa wrote ...

My point was this, Mr. Meeker is a Christian who did not sign this document because of his beliefs about the gay lifestyle. The gay lifestyle doesn't line up with the Bible. Therefore signing a document saying you accept this lifestyle goes against his core beliefs. So on the flip side. Someone who does not believe in Jesus would have trouble signing a document saying they would celebrate his birthday. It was an example, that's all nothing more....

Monday, May 19 at 11:07 AM wake up wrote ...

dear anonymous, have you ever been discriminated against?? doesn't feel very good...employers preach this garbage but it doesn't uphold for EVERY employee

Monday, May 19 at 11:05 AM Equal Training for All wrote ...

SO, if there's training for sexual harrassment, homosexuals, race...how about people who suffer with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive, social anxiety disorder and countless others. We taught how to tolerate everything else, people with these ailments are discriminated against too. A local company terminated an employee suffering from depression. Lawyer indicated would only get involved if a "minority". Tired of hearing about rights, some have none.

Monday, May 19 at 10:42 AM Perspective wrote ...

Sexual preference comes in many forms. Heterosexual or homosexual. Some prefer children or animals or violent sex. It matters not what it is, it is a learned preference and is a very real reality to those who have it. But all "behavior" is a choice. Succesful cultures must condemn destructive behaviors to survive. The Christian believes all sexual contact outsided of heterosexual marriage is damaging to society and should not be encouraged. God teaches us this. But anyone can be forgiven.

Monday, May 19 at 10:34 AM Anonymous wrote ...

I hope if Rockwell has meetings teaching acceptance of religious diversity, all the people who look at Mr. Meeker as an example of Christian beliefs " opt out" of the meeting en masse. Why should they be forced to accept bigoted narrow minded Christian beliefs any more than Mr. Meeker should be forced to attend instruction about being respectful to people who are different than him. Oh but if someone trashed Mr. Meeker's religious views in such a manner, the ugly would come out wouldn't it?

Monday, May 19 at 10:33 AM Welcome to 2008 wrote ...

Rockwell Collins adopted a diversity plan to ensure a safe, productive work environment for all employees...similar to almost every company in corporate America today. The Standards of Business Conduct that he was asked to sign stated that if you cannot respect your coworkers regardless of your differences, you cannot work for this company. He did not sign the Standards, therefore, he does not work for the company. It's not a morale debate, it's simple business. Unclench now.

Monday, May 19 at 10:29 AM Anonymous wrote ...

What if he didn't care for women- should he be allowed to skip sexual harassment seminars? Or if he is not fond of black people - can he just glide over the information on racial discrimination in the workplace? He needed to accept he works with all kinds of people and NONE of them should have to tolerate any discrimination- therefore ALL the training should be mandatory for ALL the employees. To me, he just proves that he would not have been able to work alongside gay people respectfully.

Monday, May 19 at 10:10 AM JMT wrote ...

What are you talking about Teresa? Being gay and celebrating Jesus birthday have nothing to do with each other. I suspect in this country the majority of gay people are christians. What an odd comment.

Monday, May 19 at 10:02 AM You don't have the facts wrote ...

I found the actual filed complaint and read it. The news story is only giving you half the details and looks to be designed to inflame. Rockwell's claim of disrespect and bad treatment is refuted by Mr. Meeker. The purpose of "training" is to "train" people. Mr. Meeker claims the training says homosexuality is normal, healthy and must be accepted. This is what he is rejecting and what he was fired for. It appears to have nothing to do with how he treats or views gays individually.

Monday, May 19 at 9:54 AM Geez wrote ...

To all who are showing support for Mr. Meeker, you must be just as much of a bigot as he is. There is no one side to this story as some are claiming. The fact of the matter is, we all have to go through training, and the reason is, there are people who discriminate in the workplace, and training of this sort cannot be limited to people who have discriminated against others in their workplace, so everyone must attend. And you should respect your fellow man, no matter what their preferences are.

Monday, May 19 at 9:43 AM slightly confused wrote ...

At what point in American Society, do we say enough is enough, and stop trying to put personal preferences and life styles on parade in the mainstream? There is aslo the issue of what behaivior is deemed acceptable and what is not by the moral majority. I certainly would not want to work in an environment where petifiles are considered someone to repsect, and ok to be around. There has to be some sort of line drawn, and personal sexual choices need to stay at home and not discussed at work.

Monday, May 19 at 9:40 AM fools! - all of you! wrote ...

Jesus was not tolarant. He said "I love you. Go and sin no more." It was their choice to quit. stop. He gave love regardless. He hated sin so much He died to end it. My fellow believers here: 2nd Timothy says to NOT get caught up in idle chatter. Your forum is not here but in prayer with Him. The Word also says, "Be still and know that I am God." Ephns 3 says, " to live at peace with others." PEACE. Not tolarance. Not Hate. But Love. 2nd Timothy also says a soldier doesnt do civilian affairs..

Monday, May 19 at 9:33 AM Anonymous wrote ...

OMG! I AGREE WITH JANE 8:38... I DON'T KNOW TOM MEEKER NOR DO I WORK FOR ROCKWELL BUT HELLOOO PEOPLE YOU ARE ALL VOICING YOU OPINION ON A ONE SIDED NEWS ARTICLE!!! NOBODY KNOWS ALL THE TRUE STORY BUT TOM MEEKER!!! ALSO, FOR THE ONE WHO SAID THEY KNOW SOME GAY CHRISTIANS... UMMM THE LAST TIME I CHECKED IT STATES IN THE BIBLE AGAINST HOMOSEXUALITY SO THEY AREN'T CHRISTIANS IN MY BOOK!! HALF OF THESE COMMENTS ARE PROBABLY FROM HOMOS!!!!!!!!!!

Monday, May 19 at 9:22 AM JMT wrote ...

The idea is to treat everybody with respect. Not that you have to "respect" everybody. I once heard something in a (workplace) class something that people should keep in mind. The rules change when you cross the workplace door. I can't say whatever I want, I can't wear whatever I want, I can't do whatever I want. You sometimes have to put aside your personal preferences when you come to work. I imagine most every major corporation in America now has a diversity program. Get used to it.

Monday, May 19 at 9:14 AM Teresa wrote ...

I would have done the same as Meeker! He did not sign the document,(that stated, he accepts the gay lifestyle) because he does not accept the gay lifestyle plain and very simple. That does not mean he was disrespectful to his coworkers. He was being force to sign something he does not agree with. R.C. is very wrong!!I would love to see R.C. have the gays sign a document stating they had to celebrate Jesus Birthday or they were fired! Oh, boy, what controversy that would bring! Double Standards

Monday, May 19 at 9:04 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Rockwell at its best....again?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! You go Mr. Meeker!

Monday, May 19 at 8:50 AM Hmmm wrote ...

Is that the same Christian faith that preaches "tolerance" and "peace"...

Monday, May 19 at 8:41 AM Leasia wrote ...

Respect is not a voluntary notion. If a person respects another then that person's actions fit the criteria you have established as moral and just. Telling a person to respect is like asking them to change their values. They might as well have asked the homosexual to change his sexual preferences. "Respect" is not the right word to use in this situation, tolerance may be better. Sexual preference is not a topic for work anyway. If it stayed out, no opinions would have formed.

Monday, May 19 at 8:22 AM Obvious guy wrote ...

I believe the Christian value is to hate the sin not the sinner ....

Monday, May 19 at 8:21 AM swanee wrote ...

Somebody should tell Mr. Meeker that all Christian faith should also teach tolerance and forgiveness. Jesus Christ was all about tolerance and forgiveness. He must have missed those parts in the Bible.

Monday, May 19 at 8:10 AM jp wrote ...

If guys or homos or what ever one calls them, didn't wave a flag announcing what they are nobody would know or care. Maybe we should all wave a flag saying im hetersexual. Why are they so proud of it??

Monday, May 19 at 7:16 AM mike wrote ...

every company including the military have to go with this training it is know big deal it lets you know about other pepole al on race religion and yes sexual preference

Monday, May 19 at 6:44 AM grams wrote ...

Let us not be Bible beaters as all of us each day sin according to the Bible. I do believe Mr. Meeker has a right to his beliefs but he should still respect this person and his ability to do his job. I have worked for a lot of companies who have these meetings only to emphasize we treat each other with respect regardless of their beliefs or how they choose to live their lives. Now he is out of a job and the people he so objects to are still working, so what did he really prove.

Monday, May 19 at 5:46 AM Iowan wrote ...

Diversity training, is the other end of the Push me pull you idealogy of employee harrasment, on one end you are told to conform, respect and accept, and on the other your instructed to be self-directed, use your own judgement and make decisions, not everyone can decifer a common ground between the two. Other beliefs can conflict and get in the way of an employees ability to accept change or at least rationalize the situation. Leadership should have had a plan to better handle this situation.

Sunday, May 18 at 11:26 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Dump the training, it is useless anyways. When you have to create an Office of Diversity, it is polictial correctness going way to far.

Sunday, May 18 at 11:23 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Don't ask, Don't tell

Sunday, May 18 at 10:37 PM More rights activists? wrote ...

"The documents also say Rockwell Collins told Meeker before letting him go that they did not expect him to change his beliefs, but rather respect his co-workers." So, we are supposed to "respect" a gay person?. I think NOT if I am not gay. I won't judge them, condemn them or harm them, but DO NOT tell me I have to RESPECT them. WRONG ANSWER! I don't have to respect anyone I don't want to. It doesn't mean I have to voice it either, but HERE, I am. You GO Mr Meeker! I hope you win this case.

Sunday, May 18 at 10:32 PM Shannon wrote ...

some of you are missing the point. The training is to protect the company from employees discriminating against one another. If he wants to believe something fine his choice but if he discriminates against a coworker because of his beliefs and the company has made it clear that he can't then he is to blame not them. The training is not to make him believe anything it is to let him know that what ever his beliefs he can't discriminate against co-workers.

Sunday, May 18 at 10:27 PM Is This A Corporate Trend Now? wrote ...

It sounds to me like the company didn't respect his Christian values. That's interesting, considering that the majority of employees there are probably Christians.

Sunday, May 18 at 6:41 PM Diversity Training is a JOKE wrote ...

I worked for MCI/Worldcom/Verizon for 16 years and they had the same training. I refused to play the game so hence I'm no longer working there. My life is much better now. I will never work for CORPORATE AMERICA again. I don't need someone to tell me to be all nicey nice to someone. WHY DO I NEED TO DISCUSS ANYONE'S sexuality in the workplace? I don't discuss heterosexuality with everyone so why do I need to know what someone does at home?

Sunday, May 18 at 4:06 PM Cowgirl wrote ...

No one cares if you are gay - just keep it private like it should be. The work place is a joke any more, people flossing their teeth, eating their lunch, going barefoot, burning candles, using space heaters, talking on their cell phone at their work station. It has become an extension of their living room. Do you know what its like having someone eat noisy pretsels, chips, ice chips, rice cakes at the desk next to you - annoying. But companies do not deal with these issues.

Sunday, May 18 at 1:17 PM It's About Time wrote ...

It's no secret that American corporations have gone overboard with trendy diversity programs. The whole concept is full of double standards, but most employees just cave in and go along with it even though they know it's wrong. It's good to see someone finally stand up for their own morals and refuse to play the corporate game. If more people did this, maybe common sense could once again return to the workplace.

Sunday, May 18 at 1:12 PM mmm wrote ...

maybe the course should be about discrimination rights like age, gender, religion. ect... and not just about accepting homosexsuality, but respecting people and coworkers overall

Sunday, May 18 at 12:40 PM duh wrote ...

it wasn't about his religious beliefs it was about the fact that he was unable to at LEAST respect his co workers. it didn't say you had to like the people, it didn't say he had to be friends with them. Yes lets punish rockwell collins for asking its employees to treat each other with respect and dignity, that doesn't mean you have to change your beliefs or your way of thinking. it was a diversity celebration, not just about gays but about every type of culture, skin color, and gender

Sunday, May 18 at 12:00 PM Dave wrote ...

First off, I don't think Rockwell was trying to make him "conform" to anything. Mr Meeker has the right to think whatever he wants and believes, but if Mr Meeker wants to work at Rockwell, he needs to follow the training just like everyone else. Rockwell is not trying to change anyone's beliefs or opinions, they just want everyone to understand each other, whether you agree with that lifestyle or not. All Mr Meeker had to do is go to the training and not say a word, how hard is that?

Sunday, May 18 at 11:42 AM A Christian wrote ...

It is people like Mr. Meeker that have given Christianity a bad name. Jesus taught us to love one another as we love ourselves and to love our enemy even more. We do not need to embrace another's choices in life, we need to love each other in spite of these differences. This sounds like what Rockwell's training was set up to do. Mr. Meeker, please read the New Testament, paying close attention to words such as condemnation, respect and authority. God be with you.

Sunday, May 18 at 10:01 AM Gimme a break.... wrote ...

"The documents also say Rockwell Collins told Meeker before letting him go that they did not expect him to change his beliefs, but rather respect his co-workers." These diversity training courses are not only for information, but also for the company to protect themselves should an employee discriminate another while on the job. "Get the facts" I've read my Bible too, my God is about acceptance and tolerance. Be careful in that glass house of yours, there is only one who can judge us.

Sunday, May 18 at 9:20 AM Jane makes a good point wrote ...

I agree with Jane. I don't know this person or the situation, but she made a very good point. She said,"I'm sure that Tom respected his coworkers regardless of their sex preference, however he shouldn't be forced into thinking its ok."

Sunday, May 18 at 5:37 AM Me wrote ...

It's one thing to respect others and their choices and quite another thing to celebrate and accept homosexuality as I'm sure Rockwell was doing. I think it took guts to opt out of this training. Too bad he lost his job, I think THAT'S the tragedy.

Sunday, May 18 at 12:01 AM Chris wrote ...

Employee at will. They can let you go for what ever they want. I guess he should have just taken the training rather that sitting in the unemployment line.

Saturday, May 17 at 11:01 PM kathy wrote ...

Sometimes our beliefs need to be put aside. We need to do our jobs and go on with our lives. I also agree with several people and hope that this lawsuit is thrown out of court. Whats next someone suing because they have to work with someone who looks funny and have a accent.

Saturday, May 17 at 10:52 PM He got what he deserved wrote ...

Anonymous, I'm quite sure the point of the training was to encourage people to keep their beliefs/prejudices to themselves, not to make them change their beliefs. Personally, I strongly believe that right-wing politics is the work of the devil, but I'm not going to tell anyone I work with who votes Republican that they're going to hell ;) It's about respect, not about conformity, and if Mr Meeker can't understand that then clearly he's not a good fit for a company that does.

Saturday, May 17 at 10:41 PM Ray Wrote wrote ...

Tom, thank you for standing for truth. We do not have to "Conform" to the world's way of thinking. Remember to pray for the those who so desparately need God's truth. All roads do not lead to the same place!

Saturday, May 17 at 10:32 PM Get the facts wrote ...

How quick we are to judge. Last I checked, we lived in a free country which means that Mr Meeker is free to believe what he wants. If you take all the hype out of this story, it's simply a man (a very brave one, I might add) telling a very large company that they do not have the right to terminate his employment based on his beliefs. And, Christianity teaches both that homosexuality is wrong and that we are to love as neighbor as we love ourselves. I have read my Bible unlike Give Me a Break

Saturday, May 17 at 10:13 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Sounds to me like he didn't give the people a hard time for how they lived their life, but rather refused to take part in a training to accept something he didn't believe in. Personally, sounds like a waist of time. Rockwell should be putting their employees to work, not trying to change their beliefes. If he was treating people badley that is different. but from this story, you can't make that determination. I think the lawsuit is good.

Saturday, May 17 at 9:40 PM Jim wrote ...

It's 2008, not 1958. Times have changed and all large companies are embracing diversity. That's the way it is, like it or lump it. If you want to work there go to the classes and keep your trap shut. And besides, I know gay people that are Christians. People like Mr. Meeker give all Christians a bad name.

Saturday, May 17 at 9:17 PM Give me a break.... wrote ...

My religion does not believe in working on Fridays and I was recently dismissed of my position. Thank you Mr. Meeker as you are a pioneer in the system and paving the way for us fellow free-loaders that can bog down an already overloaded legal system with such frivolous lawsuits. Perhaps on your time off you could open your Bible and find the passages regarding love thy neighbor and another about tolerance of others.

Saturday, May 17 at 8:38 PM Jane wrote ...

I know Tom Meeker personally, he is an upstanding man. It's easy to voice your opinions by reading a one sided news article. I'm sure that Tom respected his coworkers regardless of their sex preference, however he shouldn't be forced into thinking its ok.

Saturday, May 17 at 8:32 PM Common Sense wrote ...

Oh, for heaven's sake! Does Christianity teach people to be bigoted? And what's that about casting the first stone? RESPECT for your fellow human beings, that should be first and foremost. If you don't like their lifestyle, that's your right, but it's NOT your right to tell them so, Mr Meeker. It may be a surprise to you, but how someone else lives their life is none of your business. End of story. I hope this ridiculous lawsuit is thrown out of court.

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