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Sikh Sues Disney Over Firing

By Howard M. Friedman

Friday's Orlando (FL) Business Journal reports that Sukhbir Channa, a Sikh, has filed suit in state court against Walt Disney World alleging he was discriminated against because of his turban, beard and long hair required by his religious beliefs. Originally hired as a seasonal college musician, Channa says he was fired because he did not have the "Disney look". Channa says he wore a toy soldier hat over his turban in his parade performances, and originally was allowed to wear a red turban instead of a beret in atmospheric performances, but supervisors decided this was not sufficient. The suit alleges violations of the Florida Civil Rights Act. It seeks damages of at least $1 million and an injunction preventing Disney from discriminating against Sikh employees and prospective employees in the future.

Full post as published by Religion Clause on June 15, 2008 (boomark / email).