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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.
Listen Here
Watch Full Episode
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.
FAQs
Who is Bill Brown?
Bill Brown is a Navy SEAL veteran, attorney, and advocate for veteran rights. He is currently involved in a lawsuit against the law firm McCarter & English for alleged discrimination and is campaigning for veterans to be recognized as a protected class under New Jersey law.
What is the main issue discussed in this episode of Stories of Service?
The episode focuses on veteran workplace discrimination, free speech concerns on college campuses, and how Americans can unite despite political differences.
Why is Bill Brown’s lawsuit significant?
Brown’s case highlights gaps in state-level anti-discrimination protections for veterans. While USERRA provides some federal safeguards, states like New Jersey do not currently classify veterans as a protected class, leaving many vulnerable to workplace bias.
What is a “protected class”?
A protected class is a group of people legally shielded from discrimination based on specific characteristics (e.g., race, gender, religion). Bill Brown and supporters argue that military veterans should be added to state laws as a protected class.
What recent events were referenced in the podcast introduction?
Theresa Carpenter and Bill Brown discussed a fatal subway stabbing in North Carolina and the controversial killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, both of which they viewed as symptomatic of deeper divisions and societal failings.
How does free speech fit into this discussion?
Brown emphasized that open debate on college campuses is essential for democracy. He warned that silencing controversial voices undermines free expression and healthy discourse.
What is the Navy SEAL Swim mentioned in the episode?
The Navy SEAL Swim is an annual event in New York City honoring fallen teammates, victims of 9/11, and supporting the Navy SEAL Foundation. It serves as a reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and unity.
