I am trying to make sense of the EEOC guidelines. It's a lot to take in lol.
I am currently having an issue with my department that is cause for concern for me. I finally went ahead and got a few visible piercings a few months ago. My employer has no policy regarding piercings and neither did my department. My department is renown for starting frivolous conflicts. So some time went by and out of the blue, I am told that I must remove my nose ring (never mind the fact you have to be foot away from me to even see it). I stated that I would not remove it. Mind you, I never see my boss or anyone in management. So, I called my boss and asked him what was going on. He stated that an “associate”, who wished to remain anonymous, sent in a complaint about my nose ring. I was not allowed to view this complaint or the circumstances surrounding it. So I told him I was not going to remove it. I did not state my beliefs at this time because it would have caused complete chaos.
So, I let the flames die down and figured it would pass. My boss came out for my mid-year review (which I did well on as usual) and told me that I had to take it out. I informed him again that there is no company or department policy against it and showed him in person the proof. Several weeks pass.
I just received an email yesterday:
“I'm following up with our conversation during your mid year review regarding facial jewelry. I spoke to our HR representative and the current uniform policy was revised to include that no facial jewelry is permitted to be worn while in uniform. The revised policy is going to be re-posted and a note sent to everyone advising of the update. I just wanted to let you know before hand, since we discussed this particular item earlier.”
I am taking this issue up with Associate Relations at the moment. I am trying to resolve this matter on a civil level, but they are alienating me and discriminating against just me. There are other associates (not in my department) who have body modifications. It is just sad that they have to open a can of worms. I HIGHLY doubt they would tell (or not hire) a married Hindu woman that she could not wear a Bindi on her forehead. Why? Because that would be discrimination. A bindi is facial jewelry the same as mine is…an expression of who I am.
I am really not looking forward to having to explain myself, nor should I. Because of one “complaint”, the policy is being rewritten. I just received another email a few minutes ago….The uniform policy was not changed because of you. Associate Relations was consulted, and they felt that the current uniform policy that was in place covered facial jewelry. The policy was updated / revised to make it more clearer to everyone.”
Personally, my health is not very good right now and fighting this matter will wear me down even more. I do not feel that I should compromise my convictions either. I will find out more when I talk to Associate Relations tomorrow.
I would appreciate anyone's suggestions or support at this time.
Thank you,
Sara
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