Stand with Josh Against Discrimination from Maine's IF&W

In the attached video, former Maine Game Warden Josh Polland speaks with the Christian Civic League of Maine about troubling policies being advanced by the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W). Josh has received strong support from both current and former employees, as well as concerned citizens, but there’s much more to the story than the video could cover.

Retired Game Warden Dave Peppard and his wife Theresa feel strongly about what has happened to Josh. That is why they have started this site to raise funds for Josh’s legal complaint which is explained below.

Over the past 18 months, Josh has endured discriminatory treatment from IF&W leadership—treatment rooted in his gender, military service, and injuries sustained during combat in Iraq. In response, Josh has filed a federal complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) against the Commissioner of IF&W.

Standing for truth has come at a cost. Josh has already resigned from the Warden Service—sacrificing his income—and he and his wife, Jessi, have paid a $5,000 legal retainer to begin this process. They are stepping into this battle not just for themselves, but on behalf of those still within IF&W who feel silenced or stuck under toxic leadership.

Josh has always believed in having the courage to do what is right, even when it’s costly. Now, they’re asking for help. Legal expenses and time away from work have been financially challenging. If you believe in this cause and want to stand with Josh and Jessi, your financial support would be deeply appreciated.