What does wearing a hijab Symbolise?

For some, the hijab is worn by Muslim women to maintain modesty and privacy from unrelated males. According to the Encyclopedia of Islam and Muslim World, modesty concerns both men’s and women’s “gaze, gait, garments, and genitalia”. Wearing hijab in public is not required by law in Saudi Arabia.

Is hijab cultural or religious?

Hijab is often a cultural, not a religious, construct. There is not a strict, single interpretation, and many Muslim women do not wear special coverings at all. The mother of this Saudi family wears a full abaya, for example, while her daughters are unveiled. Hijab is an Islamic concept of modesty and privacy.

Can an employer assume an individual’s religious observance is not sincere?

However, just because an individual’s religious practices may deviate from commonly-followed tenets of the religion, the employer should not automatically assume that his or her religious observance is not sincere. Moreover, an individual’s religious beliefs – or degree of adherence – may change over time, yet may nevertheless be sincerely held.

Are employers required to allow religious dress and grooming in the workplace?

In most instances, employers are required by federal law to make exceptions to their usual rules or preferences to permit applicants and employees to observe religious dress and grooming practices. 1. What is the federal law relating to religious dress and grooming in the workplace?

Can an employer require an employee to cover a religious symbol?

Yes, if the employee’s religious beliefs permit covering the attire or item. However, requiring an employee’s religious garb, marking, or article of faith to be covered is not a reasonable accommodation if that would violate the employee’s religious beliefs. EXAMPLE 9 Covering Religious Symbol Contrary to Individual’s Religious Beliefs

Can an employer discriminate based on religious preference?

If an employer takes an action based on the discriminatory religious preferences of others, including customers, clients, or co-workers, the employer is unlawfully discriminating in employment based on religion. Customer preference is not a defense to a claim of discrimination.