Question

I have a white employee that wears African American style box braids, sometimes in bright colors. Some other employees find it offensive, but no serious complaints yet. Do I have grounds to ask her to stop wearing her hair that way?

Answer 1

As an employer, it's crucial to approach matters of employee appearance and cultural sensitivity with sensitivity and fairness. Before taking any action, consider the following points:

1. Assess your company's policies: Review your company's dress code and appearance policies to ensure they do not discriminate against specific hairstyles or cultural expressions. Many jurisdictions have laws protecting employees from discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or cultural identity, which includes protections for hairstyles associated with certain racial or ethnic groups.

2. Cultural sensitivity: Understand that certain hairstyles, such as box braids, have cultural significance for African Americans. Asking an employee to stop wearing a hairstyle that is deeply rooted in their culture can be viewed as culturally insensitive and discriminatory.

3. Equal treatment: Ensure that all employees are treated equally and fairly. If other employees are allowed to wear hairstyles that are not deemed culturally offensive, it would be discriminatory to single out one employee for her choice of hairstyle.

4. Employee communication: Initiate open communication with the employees who find the box braids offensive. Understand their concerns and viewpoints while explaining the importance of diversity, inclusivity, and cultural understanding in the workplace.

5. Education and training: Consider providing diversity and inclusion training for all employees to promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures and expressions.

6. Seek legal advice if necessary: If you're unsure about the legal implications or how to handle the situation properly, consult with legal experts to ensure you comply with anti-discrimination laws and protect both your employees and the company.

If no formal complaints have been made yet, it may be an opportunity to address the issue proactively. You can foster an inclusive and understanding workplace environment by promoting education and open dialogue about cultural diversity. Remember that creating a respectful and diverse workplace is not just about policies but also about building a culture of acceptance and appreciation for individual differences.