Chicago TikTok Historian Laid Off Despite Promises of Job Security
ComEd Employee Speaks Out After 13 Years of Service
Shermann ‘Dilla’ Thomas, a popular Chicago TikTok creator and urban historian, has been laid off by ComEd despite being promised job security in a non-union role. Thomas joined the company in 2011 and climbed the ranks from meter reader to area operator, earning a reputation as a respected community figure.
A Growing Online Presence
Thomas’ social media presence grew online, attracting the attention of higher-ups at ComEd. The company asked him to wear ComEd-branded merchandise in his videos, which he agreed to do, hoping to “lift the company up”. Thomas added that ComEd president and CEO Gil C. Quiniones personally reached out to him, leading him to believe that they were “pals”.
A New Role with Uncertainty
ComEd offered Thomas a managerial role, allowing him to focus on promoting the company online. However, this role was not union-protected, which concerned Thomas. Despite this, he accepted the offer, believing that his new role would be secure.
Broken Promises
Eighteen months into his new role, Thomas was laid off along with dozens of other ComEd employees. He recalled being told that if the company ever had downsizing in the communication department, they would move him to another role. The CEO assured him that they would support him, stating, “If we ever have downsizing in the communication department, we’ll just move you somewhere else. We’re going to support you, Dilla.”
A Terrible Surprise
Thomas was devastated by the news, feeling tricked into the non-union role. He received a 60-day internal search period to find another position within the company and a comprehensive severance package, which he declined due to a non-disclosure agreement.
ComEd’s Response
ComEd responded to WGN News’ request for comment, stating that the layoffs were a “limited workforce reduction program” affecting approximately 70 individuals. The company offered a 60-day internal search period and a comprehensive severance package.
Thomas’ Next Steps
Thomas is considering legal action against ComEd but is grateful for the community support he has received. He believes that he should not have been tricked into the non-union role and hopes that the company will learn from this experience.
Conclusion
Shermann ‘Dilla’ Thomas’ story is a cautionary tale about the importance of job security and transparency in the workplace. As a respected community figure and TikTok creator, Thomas’ experience has sparked a conversation about the treatment of employees by ComEd and the importance of protecting workers’ rights.
FAQs
* What happened to Shermann ‘Dilla’ Thomas?
Thomas was laid off by ComEd despite being promised job security in a non-union role.
* How long did Thomas work for ComEd?
Thomas worked for ComEd for 13 years, starting in 2011.
* What was Thomas’ role at ComEd?
Thomas was a managerial role, focusing on promoting the company online.
* Why was Thomas laid off?
Thomas was laid off due to a “limited workforce reduction program” affecting approximately 70 individuals.
