Uber reported to the state that I was fired for 'annoying a coworker.'

Source: Hacker News

Background

I was repeatedly disrespected by a coworker who made comments in front of teammates implying I wasn’t well‑read, among other things. I reported the behavior to both my manager and HR.

Investigation

HR concluded that I had violated Uber’s No Sexual Harassment Policy, citing “messages to a peer that made them uncomfortable.” The messages I sent were about her behavior making me uncomfortable and contained no sexual undertones. When I asked HR to point out the offending messages, they refused.

First Strike – Final Warning

HR placed me on a final warning and instructed me to communicate with the coworker only about work topics, warning that any deviation could lead to further action.

Attempted Guidance

A few weeks later the coworker approached me about non‑work topics. Because I was on a final warning, I sought guidance from HR. They verbally advised me to tell her I wasn’t comfortable discussing non‑work matters for the time being.

The next day she approached me again in a non‑work context, so I followed HR’s advice and sent a Slack message stating I wanted to keep communication limited to work topics.

Reopened Investigation & Termination

Following my Slack message, HR reopened the investigation. A few days later I was terminated via Zoom and immediately locked out of my work laptop.

Termination Certificate

The termination certificate cited “disruptive and inappropriate communication” and a violation of Uber’s Workplace Standards of Conduct. It made no mention of sexual harassment.

Unemployment Claim

Because Uber reported to the state that I was discharged for actions that “annoyed a coworker,” my initial unemployment claim was denied. I appealed, provided testimony to a judge, and was granted benefits, as “annoying a coworker” does not constitute willful misconduct.

Legal Follow‑up

I explored further legal action, but Uber’s legal team indicated there was no viable path forward, and I was unable to secure additional legal counsel.