Veteran discrimination? with Former Navy SEAL Bill Brown
In a powerful and emotional episode of the Stories of Service podcast, host Theresa Carpenter sat down with Navy SEAL veteran and attorney Bill Brown. The conversation ranged from heartbreaking recent tragedies to the urgent need for veteran protections in the workplace, free speech on college campuses, and the importance of unity in a divided America.
Opening with Reflection: Tragedy and Division in America
Theresa began the episode by acknowledging two devastating events—a fatal stabbing in North Carolina and the killing of commentator Charlie Kirk. Both incidents, she noted, reveal deep fractures in American society. Brown agreed, pointing to judicial failures and the disturbing reality of online hatred.
“This is a moment where we need to come together as a nation—no matter what side of the aisle you fall under,” Carpenter said.
Grassroots efforts are emerging to promote solidarity, including marches organized in Virginia. Brown shared that advocating publicly comes with risks—he’s received formal security assessments due to threats—but insists the stakes are too high to remain silent.
Bill Brown’s Lawsuit Against McCarter & English
Bill Brown described his lawsuit against McCarter & English, alleging that the prominent law firm retaliated against him for expressing conservative views and pushing for veteran inclusion in DEI initiatives.
Key points from the discussion:
Brown was excluded from DEI activities after requesting recognition for 9/11, despite the firm’s history in the Twin Towers.
He says he was given unsuitable cases and targeted online, creating a “death by a thousand cuts.”
Parts of his lawsuit were dismissed, but critical claims under USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act) are moving forward.
Why Veterans Need Protected Class Status?
Bill Brown and Theresa Carpenter emphasized a gap in state-level anti-discrimination laws: veterans are not consistently treated as a protected class.
Why it matters:
Veterans often lack local networks after service, making re-entry into civilian life harder.
Biases—such as inappropriate questions about combat experiences—can harm their careers.
Protected class status would send employers a clear legal warning against discrimination.
In New Jersey, Assembly Bill A5048 and Senate Bill S3800 would add veterans as a protected class, but both bills stalled. Brown vowed to continue lobbying for change.
Free Speech, College Campuses, and the Legacy of Debate
The conversation broadened to concerns about academic freedom. Brown warned that the killing of a high-profile commentator like Charlie Kirk could silence critical voices:
“If you don’t have freedom of expression on our universities—what freedoms do we really have?”
Theresa underscored that Stories of Service provides a platform for open dialogue, reminding listeners that respectful debate is a cornerstone of democracy.
The Navy SEAL Swim: Honoring Sacrifice on 9/11
Ending on a hopeful note, Brown highlighted the New York City Navy SEAL Swim, an annual event honoring fallen teammates and victims of 9/11. Now in its seventh year, the swim supports the Navy SEAL Foundation and reinforces the idea that service doesn’t end with military duty.
🔑Key Takeaways:
Reject hate and division. Recent tragedies are a call for Americans to unite.
Strengthen veteran protections. Adding veterans to state-level protected classes would safeguard their rights.
Defend free speech. Open debate is vital for democracy, especially on college campuses.
Honor the fallen. Events like the Navy SEAL Swim remind us of sacrifice and resilience.
WATCH FULL EPISODE HERE
Want to support veteran rights or learn more?
Follow Stories of Service on your favorite podcast platform.
Share Bill Brown’s story to raise awareness of veteran discrimination.
Contact your state representatives about adding veterans as a protected class.
Visit the Navy SEAL Foundation to learn how you can help support warriors and their families.
