BP Executive Allegedly Terminated for Braided Hair and Ethnic Clothing: ‘Save it for Black History Month’
by Howard Crane
With all the damage BP has done internationally, one would assume they’d have a little more tolerance for diversity in their business. Melphine Evans,
a black female executive at BP, was allegedly terminated from the
British oil giant because the clothing she wore was inappropriate, and
should only be worn during cultural days, black history month, or
special diversity events. Evans is now suing the company.
According
to the suit, filed with the Orange County Superior Court, several
outrageous racially charged remarks aimed at Evans are outlined in the
document, including the following:
"'You intimidate and make your colleagues uncomfortable by wearing ethnic clothing and ethnic hairstyles (Dashikis, twists, braids/cornrows).""If you insist on wearing ethnic clothing/hairstyles-you should only do so during 'culture day,' black history month or special diversity events/days.'""If you are going to wear ethnic clothing, you should alert people in advance that you will be wearing something ethnic ..."
Despite
being an employee with the company for close to 10 years, Evans’
supervisors claim that she was terminated as a result of failure to get
along with co-workers and was regularly involved with “bullying and
overly aggressive behavior.” However, Evans’ yearly evaluation clearly
stated: “Melphine is a people person. She engages her entire
organization and is sincere in her desire to ensure all are valued and
heard."
“Generally,
BP does not publicly discuss personnel issues,” BP spokesman Scott Dean
told Courthouse News Service. “However, BP treats all employees fairly.
BP disagrees with the claims and will vigorously defend the suit.”
Hopefully, the truth will be revealed on this issue soon.
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