Hundreds of city workers who were fired by the city after refusing to get vaccinated against COVID-19 are planning a lawsuit to get their jobs and wages back, now that the mandate has been removed.
There are approximately 1,780 public employees, including police officers, firefighters, and cleaning personnel.
“And because they don’t want to get vaccinated, they don’t have to take their jobs, because what are they going to survive on? They have to pay their rent, their bills,” said Andrés Pérez.
Mayor Eric Adams, who has taken a no concessions stance for those he deemed irresponsible, says they can reapply for the positions, but this does not guarantee they will return or that they will receive any compensation.
“It’s not that they are irresponsible,” Pérez added.
The mayor’s actions have been seconded by the commissioner of the Department of Health and Hygiene, Dr. Ashwin Vasan.
“It is clear that these mandates saved lives and were absolutely necessary to face the moment. We are grateful that we can now, as we emerge from the emergency phase of the pandemic, modify more of the rules that have brought us to this point,” Vasan said.
Hilda Izaguirre, a Medicaid public worker, sees Adams’ position as unfair. She tells that a Hispanic colleague has not been able to return to the office.
“It is unfair because they have been working for many years and it is good that these people return,” said Izaguirre.
Izaguirre agrees that they get paid despite having been away. And she regrets in herself that she had no choice.
“Bad, because I had to get the vaccine without wanting to do it. But I am a single mother, my children depend on my income.”
Other workers considered essential who suffered layoffs were teachers. If they want to return, public and private schools and nurseries could benefit.
The turnaround comes when, according to the city, 96% of its workforce is already vaccinated! It is now optional and applies to current and future employees.
The union representing workers in the city’s Sanitation department has publicly said it is going to sue. If they do not reach an agreement with the mayor, others would do the same.
