Photo via bbc.co.uk

Airport worker in England loses right to wear her cross

A British Airways worker who claimed she was religiously discriminated against after being banned from wearing her Christian cross has lost her case, reports Michael Ireland, chief correspondent, ASSIST News Service.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reports that Nadia Eweida, 56, from Twickenham, south-west London, said her British Airways (BA) bosses banned her from wearing a small cross around her neck. But an employment tribunal said she had breached the firm's regulations without good cause.

In a statement the airline said it was "pleased" at the decision.

Miss Eweida said after learning of the judgment: "I'm very disappointed. I'm speechless really because I went to the tribunal to seek justice. But the judge has given way for BA to have a victory on imposing their will on all their staff."

Adding: "It's not over until God says it's over," she vowed to proceed with her case if her solicitor agreed.

The row began in October 2006 when Miss Eweida was told she could not wear the cross or hide it from sight. When she refused she was put on unpaid leave.

The company eventually changed their uniform policy and Miss Eweida returned to work in February 2007 and continues to be employed by the airline. She has been on rest days this week, but will return to work on Thursday wearing her cross.

In a statement BA said: "We have always maintained that our uniform policy did not discriminate against Christians and we are pleased that the tribunal's decision supports our position.

"Our current policy allows symbols of faith to be worn openly and has been developed with multi-faith groups and our staff. Nadia Eweida has worked for us for eight years and continues to be a valued member of our staff."

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[01/10/2008]

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