Is it legal for a business to discriminate and make me shave my beard?
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Is it legal for a business to discriminate and make me shave my beard?
I am muslim. Ive been a practicing muslim on and off
since 2010. I live in Colorado and I work at
McDonalds. When McDonalds hired me, it never
was an issue about my beard. 2wks after hiring me,
Im told to shave my beard if I want my job.
I battled with this because I am muslim and the
shaving of the beard goes against my beliefs. Im 23
and am still having a hard time spiritually,
emotionally, mentally.
I feel like what they are doing is wrong. Please help.
Thank you.
Asked on November 13, 2017 under Employment Labor Law, Kansas
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
Once it has been made aware that a religious "accomodation" is needed, under federal law, an employer is required to accomodate a worker whose religious belief conflicts with a work requirement unless doing so would pose an "undue hardship" on the employer. Accordingly, when a company's dress and grooming policy conflicts with an employee's genuine religious practices, than the empoyer must make an exception to allow the religious pratice unless that would be an "undue hardship" on the operation of the business. In your case, it is not clear as to why you are now being requried to shave your beard. If it for a reason that can be worked around, then an accomodation must be made. However, if it for a reason that cannot be deal with any other way, then you will need to shave. At this point, you can consult directly with a local employment law attorney for further advise as to your specific situation.
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