A Michigan court has awarded nearly $13 million to Lisa Domski, a Catholic woman who was fired by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in 2021. She was fired after refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine on religious grounds.
Domski sued her former employer after her request for a religious exemption was denied. She had worked for the company for 38 years.
She argued that the company violated her rights by firing her after she submitted a written statement from her priest. The complaint explained the vaccine conflicted with her Catholic beliefs.
A jury ruled in Domski’s favor, determining that Blue Cross Blue Shield failed to accommodate her religious beliefs. They also found that the company unlawfully terminated her.
Domski’s legal team hailed the decision as a major victory for religious freedom. Attorney Jon Marko represented Domski. He emphasized the case highlighted Americans’ right to practice their religion without government or corporate interference.
Blue Cross Blue Shield expressed disappointment with the ruling, stating that its vaccine policy was designed to protect the health of its workforce. The policy required all employees to be vaccinated or seek an accommodation.
The company maintains that its accommodation process complied with state and federal law and respected employees’ religious beliefs. BCBSM said it is reviewing additional legal options.
Some Catholics have voiced strong opposition to the COVID-19 vaccine, citing concerns over the use of cell lines from aborted fetuses in vaccine development.
While Pope Francis has supported vaccination, calling it “an act of love,” the church has emphasized that Catholics shouldn’t be obligated to get vaccinated.
