Society

Muslim Man Says Dennys Fired Him Refusing Remove Head Covering Video

Ruth Kamau  ·  February 22, 2016

A Muslim man released a video last week claiming that Denny’s fired him for refusing to take off his head covering during shifts. The worker, who identified himself as a practicing Muslim, said the chain’s managers told him the item violated uniform rules and gave him an ultimatum.

In the footage, which quickly circulated online, the man described being asked repeatedly to remove what appeared to be a religious skullcap. He explained that he viewed the request as an attack on his faith and chose not to comply. He also said the decision cost him his job at a time when he was relying on the income to support his family.

Denny’s corporate office had not issued a detailed statement by Sunday evening. Local managers at the location in question declined to comment when reached by phone, though one employee confirmed the man had worked there for several months before the dispute.

The episode drew quick attention on social media, with some users questioning whether the restaurant chain had crossed into religious discrimination. Others pointed out that many employers allow modest accommodations for religious headwear as long as safety is not an issue.

Workplace experts noted that federal law generally requires companies to make reasonable adjustments for religious practices unless doing so creates an undue hardship. The man in the video said he planned to explore his legal options through civil rights groups.