Our diversifying workplaces are challenging us to be more flexible when it comes to accomodations for religious requests. Let's not kid ourselves--this issue has been around for a long time. Maybe we made sure that there wasn't any pork in the potluck baked beans because Dave is Jewish, or maybe Sally just really would prefer to not work Saturdays because she's a Seventh Day Adventist. Now with Muslim populations entering Maine's workforce, we also need to re-think things like dress codes, prayer breaks, and holiday time. It's not unreasonable, and if we think about it's not that new of a concept. It's also the
law. Many illustrious companies have been sued, such as
American Airlines, Alamo Rent-A-Car,
Abercrombie & Fitch, and
Disney (Aladdin and Princess Jasmine refused comment)--all for not making reasonable accomodations to staff's religiously based requests.
This week we applaud the
Lewiston Chamber of Commerce for taking on the issue directly and proactively. In a few weeks they will be hosting a
brown bag luncheon and panel discussion to to increase the knowledge about certain religious practices, define what is a reasonable accommodation under the law, and identify work practices that create barriers as well as work practices and solutions that are recommended.
Date & Location: July 7th, 11:30a-1pm, Business Service Center at KeyBank Plaza, 415 Lisbon St., Lewiston, ME
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