In my opinion, Anika, you definitely should have spoken up,and it is important that you did so. Because she has been enabled to get away with it (no one had confronted her) she continues to use her tactics.

It is necessary at times in life to discipline aggressive people like that to TEACH them, Anika. She has no more idea than a snowbird that what she is doing is out of line and uncalled for.

The major thing this woman needs to grasp and keep in her mind every time she opens her mouth is that a leader is one who helps, not one who criticizes. You definitely should always have respect for yourself and look for your leadership from within and from those who show themselves to be leaders--ones who help, show the way, and offer advice for helpful improvements.

The negative stuff is largely the result of ignorance. The executives in charge need to apply the psychology of proper leadership and co-operation in their eforts. Trying to segregate employees because of differences isn't a solution. The answer lies in the having authority which is constructive, not destructive.

Management should never place people in positions of authority who have no training in how to work with people. That is a MUST in any workplace that is successful. If they wish to keep her as an employee, they should see that she attends at least one or two classes in leadership (through psychology courses at a local college or university).

Feel good about yourself. You stood up for what is right and you may have taught a good lesson to this woman who is a troublemaker.