Disneyland Employee Sent Home for Wearing Hijab

[Omaha Steve]

http://unitehere.org/presscenter/release.php?ID=4104

Muslim woman challenges Disney's discriminatory policy barring religious headscarf for "front of the house" positions

ANAHEIM - A Muslim employee in Disneyland's Grand Californian Hotel has been sent home from work with no pay for refusing to take off her hijab while working as a hostess in one of the hotel's restaurants.

Today, Imane Boudlal filed a complaint against Disney with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission - the federal agency that enforces anti-discrimination laws in the workplace.

On Aug. 15, just days after the Islamic holy month of Ramadan began, Imane Boudlal, a 26-year-old student and Anaheim resident, wore her hijab to work greeting customers at the Storyteller's Restaurant in Disneyland.

But Disney told Boudlal that if she wanted to work as a hostess she had to remove her hijab because it did not comply with the "Disney Look." Disney further advised Boudlal that if she refused to remove her hijab, she could either work a back-of-the-house position where any customers would not see her, or else go home. Disney maintained the same position when Boudlal attempted twice more to work her hostess position while wearing her hijab.

Boudlal said she was compelled to challenge Disney's discriminatory treatment after realizing her own rights. She was granted U.S. citizenship in June and while studying for the accompanying exam, learned of her first amendment right to religious freedom.

"I realized the Constitution tells me I can be Muslim, and I can wear the head scarf," Boudlal said. "Who is Disney to tell me I cannot?"

FULL story at link.

[Historic NY]

1. see link

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=226x7784

[MrSlayer]

2. Umm, Disney is your employer.

That's who they are. They are very strict about appearance while "on stage". I was told I couldn't be hired there as a cast member because my hair is too long. Unless you are an Imagineer, actor or work "offstage" you have to follow their very strict and very clear rules on appearance.

[Xipe Totec]

3. A hijab is never having to wear your sari n/t

:hide:

[proud2BlibKansan]

4. Tough one

When you have to wear a uniform, you have to wear a uniform.

[dkf]

5. Religious freedom religious freedom!

Next they will sue because Disney wont hire strict Muslims.