The family of Janet Damiro, a 71-year-old cleaner recently dismissed by the London School of Economics (LSE), has responded to widespread media reports, describing the coverage as misleading and lacking crucial context.
In a statement on Friday, Janet’s daughter, Aina Damiro, clarified the circumstances surrounding her mother’s dismissal, insisting the situation has been exaggerated.
According to Aina, the incident occurred in February during the final minutes of Janet’s morning shift when she found a bracelet on the floor.
“Though she intended to hand it over, she accidentally forgot about it afterward. The bracelet remained in her coin wallet, which was kept in her university locker.”
“When questioned a few days later, she was fully honest and cooperative.
She immediately returned the bracelet and explained the situation without denial or concealment,” Aina explained.
The family maintained that the case was a simple oversight rather than theft or misconduct, emphasizing Janet’s many years of faithful service to the institution.
They criticized the university’s decision to terminate her employment as a disproportionate response, lacking compassion—especially given Janet’s age and long tenure.
“To see her name and image associated with wrongdoing is not only unfair but deeply hurtful,” the family said.
“This innocent mistake has been misrepresented, raising concerns about how older workers, particularly women of colour in lower-paid roles, are treated.”
The family appealed to the public and media to reconsider their portrayal of the story and urged institutions to reflect on their duty to protect and support vulnerable, long-serving staff members.
As of press time, the London School of Economics had not issued an official response.
The incident has sparked discussions online, trending under hashtags such as #JusticeForJanet and #RespectElderWorkers.
%20has%20responded%20to%20widespread%20Media){kind=link}