Victory: ACLJ Resolves Case of Energy Worker Forced To Violate His Faith

Last year, we told you about an energy-sector employee who faced an impossible choice: Violate his religious beliefs – or lose his job. He had worn a short beard for years as an expression of his sincere religious convictions. His role was purely office-based and posed no safety or respirator concerns. And his employer’s own policy recognized religious accommodations for facial hair.

But suddenly, he was ordered to shave – or face termination.

We took action. We filed a federal lawsuit to defend his rights. And now we are pleased to report that the case has been resolved, protecting our client and securing justice.

As we explained previously, the employer’s own policies allowed exemptions for employees from shaving requirements, including the ability of management to assign the employee work that did not require the use of a tight-fitting respirator. Our client had performed his work duties and hadn’t used one in over a decade.

Yet the company denied his accommodation request and gave him an ultimatum: Shave or be removed from duty.

We stepped in and filed a federal lawsuit on our client’s behalf. Our legal team argued that:

• Our client’s faith was sincere.
• His request for accommodation was reasonable.
• The employer’s refusal was unlawful.

Now, after months of litigation, a positive resolution has been reached for all concerned. This is a major victory for religious liberty.

Our legal system works when people of faith are willing to stand up – and when organizations like the ACLJ are ready to fight for them. That’s what happened here.

We’re Not Done Yet

While this case is now resolved, the fight for religious liberty in the workplace is far from over. Across the country, we continue to see employers – both public and private – attempt to pressure workers into compromising their beliefs.

We won’t let that happen.

We are prepared to take action – again and again – to defend the rights of faithful Americans.

Thank you for standing with us. Your support makes these victories possible.

We’ll keep you updated as we continue to defend religious liberty in courtrooms across the country.