Here's a scenario.
Z and J are in business together, but Z controls and finances most of it, and is basically J's employer. Z is good at what he does. It is successful business and opens up many opportunities to J. It is also one of the only jobs J could ever find that would work with their disability, preferred career path, and general ethics (as far as the job itself). It is also quite a lucrative job for the amount of time required (J has to work many small jobs to make a living). In most of the public's perception, J works WITH Z, not FOR Z. (This sounds weird but it's apparently normal in the industry I am describing.) J needs money to support their sick family member. J will also gain many opportunities from staying with Z for a while, in an unforgiving and luck based industry.
Z privately holds and espouses some political views that J heavily disagrees with. Bigotry also implied, if not stated outright. Z, in private, has made rude comments about people based on appearance, sexuality, gender, etc., including certain labels that they suspect may pertain to J. During public presentations/speeches, Z thanks the military and law enforcement for their services. J doesn't want to thank cops just because they're cops, but likely does not hold enough power and respect to change this part of presentation. During these presentations, J does/says nothing in support of Z's comments, but cannot visibly disagree or disapprove. J continues to speak out about issues on their own time, and even donates to certain causes. There is a huge power imbalance in the work relationship, but J sometimes finds windows in the conversation to politely disagree or point things out, even though they have to pick their battles to maintain a working relationship/employment. Also, J has been subtly disrespected/slighted in the workplace in unrelated issues. Z isn't all bad, of course, but these particular issues are intolerable.
(There are more people involved in the situation, but I have tried to reduce it down to its basics.)
J is having a very difficult time wrestling with this dilemma. They wonder:
- Is this employment ethical/justified?
- Are they excusing this behavior?
- Is it worth it for J to keep this job for now so that they can eventually get a better job, more experience, and more influence to make GOOD change in the world and be able to make a somewhat decent living? (We're talking probably average or slightly below average standard of living.)
- Will J's name and career (and therefore, perception) forever be tied to Z?
- Are they doing harm to others by working for Z (publically appearing to work with Z)?
- Will people assume that J agrees with Z's views, and will this hurt potential relationships with other more chill people in the industry?