As reported on YBP in September, deciding to wear natural hairstyles in the work place can be a bold statement for the wearer. If your company doesn't feel that your hairstyle is appropriate, however, it can become an issue that demands legal attention.
Christopher Woodson, a moving industry professional, has experienced this type of discrimination firsthand. In May 2008, he applied for a loader position with Lawrence Transportation Systems and was denied because he refused to cut his hair. The problem with Lawrence's request is that Woodson is a Rastafarian and, due to his religious beliefs, cutting his hair is out of the question.
After attempting to reach a settlement with the company, The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has taken up Mr. Woodson's cause and recently filed a complaint on his behalf in Virginia's U.S. District Court. According to the lawsuit, Woodson, who had worked with Lawrence previously before his conversion to Rastafarianism, offered to tie his hair up or wear it in a cap, but the company refused his offer.
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+Six Flags Denies Jobs to 2 Women Based on Natural Hair
The lawsuit is just one entry in an ongoing debate about whether natural hairstyles like afros, braids and locs are acceptable in the workplace. Locs have especially been singled out as "extreme" in some cases. Just earlier this year, two women were fired from Six Flags because of them.
Read the rest of this controversial story on The Young, Black Professional Guide.
BV -- TALK BACK!
-Is it right for an employer to deny work based on a hairstyle?
-What types of hairstyles are only acceptable for certain types of businesses?
-Has this ever happened to you? Weigh in!