The memorandum advocating for the removal of the iconic photograph below was penned by Lelia Jackson, the Director of the Assault and Harassment Prevention Office within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). The decision to remove the photograph from VHA facilities was reversed by Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Denis McDonough, in response to significant backlash after the memorandum was made public online.
Ironically, Ms. Lelia Jackson authored this memorandum shortly after returning from a detail following an investigation into reports that she herself had fostered a hostile work environment for the staff she directly supervises. An employee in that office, who wishes to remain anonymous, commends the Secretary’s decision to retain the photo at VA facilities, asserting that “it remains an important part of American history and art, symbolizing the happiness and relief felt by Veterans at the end of World War II.”
The pressing question now is what steps the Department will take to address the hostile work environment within Ms. Jackson’s office?
Great question. What will be done? I was a victim of Ms. Jackson’s hostile leadership and her behavior that created a hostile work environment.
You and so many others, despite multiple complaints and legal actions. The perpetrator of unethical behaviors typically, has a large support network that enables their behavior. The Department, is equally responsible for turning a blind-eye to bad actors and their accomplices.