Religion in the Workplace: The British Airways Cross Controversy

Authors: Roth, Alexandra; Wesley, David T.A.
Source: Richard Ivey School of Business
Year: 2011
Company Name: British Airways
Number of pages: 2

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Abstract:

British Airways takes a strictly secular approach to religion in the workplace, banning any outward symbols of faith. This policy extended to the wearing of jewellry with religious symbolism. One employee who originally complied with the ban protested after she found out that the company had made accommodations to other faiths, such as allowing Sikhs to wear turbans. She then decided to wear a cross pendant in protest of the company’s perceived discriminatory policies. When British Airways disciplined the employee, it caused a public backlash by religious leaders and public supporters of the employee. The backlash against British Airways means that even a favourable ruling by the employment tribunal will have negative consequences for the company’s public image.