Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Abercrombie Settles Two EEOC Lawsuits; Will Modify "Look Policy" To Accommodate Hijab

Clothing retailer Abercrombie & Fitch has settled two lawsuits brought by the EEOC challenging the company's "look policy" under which Abercrombie refused to permit Muslim employees to wear a hijab (head scarf).  AP and Religion News Service yesterday reported that the company will now permit employees to wear the hijab.  In the settlements, Abercrombie also will pay $48,000 in damages to Hani Khan who was fired when a new district manager visited the store and saw her head scarf. (See prior posting.)  It will pay $23,000 to Halla Banafa who was not hired after she wore a hijab to her job interview. (See prior posting.)