When Workplace Violence Strikes: Mindful Guidance for CDC Employees
cdc employee rights federal employment mindfulness at work mspb appeals workplace violence Aug 15, 2025On August 8, near CDC’s Roybal campus in Atlanta, a gunman opened fire. More than 500 rounds were discharged, 150 windows shattered, and a DeKalb County police officer—David Rose—was killed responding. Investigators tied the violence to COVID-vaccine conspiracies. Thankfully, no CDC employees were physically injured, but the emotional impact is undeniable.
For many, this event came on top of already strained morale from massive workforce reductions—nearly 3,000 positions lost in the past year through RIFs, buyouts, firings, and resignations. Whether your prevailing emotion is fear, anger, or grief, know this: you do not need to downplay it to remain professional.
Your Right to a Safe Workplace
Federal employees, including those at CDC, have a right to a workplace free from violence, intimidation, and retaliation for raising safety concerns. If you witness threats, harassment, or unsafe conditions connected to your official duties:
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Document everything—dates, times, locations, names, and what was said or done.
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Preserve evidence—emails, voicemails, photos, or security footage.
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Report promptly—to your supervisor, security, and your union representative.
Mindfulness here means recognizing the reality without minimizing it. This event was not “part of the job.” It’s a serious occupational safety matter.
Protecting Yourself from Retaliation
Federal law protects you when you raise safety concerns, file incident reports, or seek accommodations after workplace violence. If you experience retaliation—such as adverse assignments, denial of leave, or threats to your career—time limits to act can be short. You may have options through:
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Your agency’s Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) process (for discrimination or retaliation claims).
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Whistleblower protections if your disclosure involves a violation of law or gross mismanagement.
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MSPB appeals if discipline or a RIF follows.
Getting legal guidance early helps preserve your rights.
When Orders Feel Unsafe or Unlawful
If you receive an instruction you believe is unsafe or conflicts with policy:
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Ask for it in writing.
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Seek clarification from a supervisor or union.
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Consult counsel before refusing—refusal without process can harm your case.
This approach safeguards both your well-being and your legal standing.
Holding Space for Gratitude Amid Hardship
Even in crisis, recognizing contributions matters. The unheralded lab tests, the outbreak averted, the data shared to speed a state’s response—these are the invisible victories that keep public health moving. Staying, or choosing to leave for your health or family, can both be acts of courage.
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While I am a federal employment attorney, this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique, and legal outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
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