William Pacheco, a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer at a major hospital in Albuquerque, reported facing potential job loss after declining to assist in an abortion procedure. This announcement was made during a press conference on March 20.
"The hospital changed the wording of the religious exemption form," said Pacheco, according to YouTube. "Put me at risk of being removed."
According to the conference, Pacheco's statement arises from an incident where he was informed by his employer that the religious exemption form had been altered, removing protections he previously depended on. He is now represented by the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), which said that his rights under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act were violated.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission explains that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. It applies to employers with 15 or more employees and covers hiring, firing, promotions, compensation, and other terms of employment. The law also established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to enforce its provisions and investigate complaints.
Pacheco is described as having over 35 years of clinical experience as a diagnostic medical sonographer at a major hospital in Albuquerque. He brings decades of expertise in prenatal imaging and patient care to his role as a public advocate and spokesperson.
