I'm not prepared to lose my position (and they indicated that's the direction we are headed in), nor am I ready to be cut down by management, based on something somebody lied to them about. It all makes me feel very out-of-control and unable to see any value in what I do and who I am.
Your situation is super stressful, I get it, believe me.
But leaving may be best but why not do it in your best interests? :-)
Ok, employee at will. But you've worked there a long time, correct?
Not an easy question nor do you have to answer but are they justified in letting you go? You can answer or not.
some things to consider....if you quit you are not entitled to unemployment which based on what i understand you are entitled.
I have personally witnessed and represented many folks who were fired for utterly crap reasons. You aren't the first and we have a terrible joke that everyone should get fired once :-) And sometimes screwing up and getting let go...can just mean its time for a change. On the other hand we used to say sometimes success if perseverence. Managers come and go, cultures change. Sometimes it is time to go so do so in your interests.
If you really think they want you gone...and you actually want to go. That is a sweet spot which you do not have to share.
I have seen folks agree to part voluntarily...and/or terminated by the company;
Things that can be negotiated......
severance (even if you think you can't)
reference letters
fired being reduced to "position eliminated" "staff reductions" etc
postponed termination
change in job/position/title w/o pay reduction
etc etc
Just as an example. This can actually be a win win but the "tension" needs to be alleviated. Do you have an advocate of any kind in the company? I do not mean HR. Please also keep in mind sometimes some unfortunate climates try to pressure staff into quitting...its cheaper for the organization. I have seen folks talked into early retirement..aka pressured. It was not in the employees interest and it pained me to see this happen.
Just my 0.02 for now but this is a process that does not need to be rushed, take your time and consider all of your options.
You can get a low cost lawyer call your state referral line...depending upon the state for about $35 if not a pro bono consult. Seriously consider this, it may be the best spent $35.
Wishing you the best,
W