This week, a judge dismissed a lawsuit brought against Bloomberg LP, which alleged that pregnant women and new moms were systematically discriminated against and denied opportunities for raises and promotions. Now, her comments about the ruling are sparking a debate.

“The law does not mandate ‘work-life balance,’” U.S. District Judge Loretta Preska wrote. “In a company like Bloomberg, which explicitly makes all-out dedication its expectation, making a decision that preferences family over work comes with consequences.” 

She added, “The law does not require companies to ignore or stop valuing ultimate dedication, however unhealthy that may be for family life.”

So, in spite of all our struggles to achieve balance and our progress in the workplace, Judge Preska is telling us to accept the fact that our careers will suffer because we chose to have families? "This seems like a big step backwards," said Carol Evans, president of Working Mother Media.

What do you think of Judge Preska's ruling and her comments?