BA check-in worker claims she was victimised after crucifix case victory
A BRITISH Airways check-in worker claimed she was victimised and harassed after winning a landmark legal battle to wear a cross at work.
Devout Christian Nadia Eweida won a claim of religious discrimination against BA in the European Court of
Human Rights in 2013 after being sent home for wearing a silver crucifix around her neck.
She argued she was never forgiven for battling with BA in the highly publicised case, which was rejected by the British courts, since a new clothing policy was brought in in 2006.
The company did a U-turn a year later saying it would allow “some flexibility” for workers to display symbols of faith.
The 69-year-old is now alleging in a new employment tribunal claim that, as punishment for whistleblowing, airline managers singled her out when she returned to work in 2007.
She argued she was “brow beaten” by airline bosses who “forced” her to work when she was in pain from glaucoma and suffered health problems, including nose bleeds, because of her treatment.
Ms Eweida said she was denied a break after experiencing strain on her eyes in the wake of an operation and told to cover a flight gate.
When she refused, she was given a written warning by management. BA denies the allegations.
A further uniform policy introduced in July 2017 required female staff to tuck their cravat in their blouse, meaning Ms Eweida had to wear her crucifix on top of her cravat - a move she claimed was designed to affect her.
BA say this case is timebarred.
But Ms Eweida of Twickenham, claims there was “good reason” as she wanted to maintain a positive relationship with her employer.
The hearing continues.