(New York, New York) March 17, 2010 - The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued a decision last week that a Sikh job applicant suffered discrimination by Tri-County Lexus. The EEOC is the federal agency charged with enforcing the nation's employment discrimination laws. The applicant, Gurpreet Singh Kherha, wanted to work as a sales representative at the Little Falls, New Jersey dealership, but was told to remove his religiously-mandated beard if he wanted the job.

Gurpreet was interviewed by Tri-County Lexus in February 2008. After the interview, Gurpreet was told that he was "well-educated" and "well-qualified", but would not be hired because of a policy prohibiting facial hair.

Gurpreet contacted the Sikh Coalition after being denied the job. In cooperation with New Jersey attorney Ravinder Singh Bhalla, the Coalition filed both a claim of discrimination with the EEOC in November 2008 and a lawsuit in New Jersey state court last month.

Next Steps
Since the EEOC made a decision in Gurpreet's favor, the agency will now attempt to negotiate a settlement with Tri-County Lexus on his behalf. If the dealership refuses to settle, the EEOC may file a lawsuit in federal court for Gurpreet.

The Coalition will continue to zealously advocate for Gurpreet's rights, and will continue to pursue both state and federal employment discrimination claims against Tri-County Lexus. As always, the Coalition calls on all Sikhs to stand up for their rights and fearlessly maintain their articles of faith.

Know Your Rights

• EEOC Guide on the Workplace Rights of Muslims, Arabs, South Asians, and Sikhs
• EEOC Guide on Employer Responsibilities Towards Muslims, Arabs, South Asians and Sikhs
  

Past Work on This Matter

• November 2008 - Coalition to take on Lexus Cars in Discrimination Case
• February 2010 - Coalition Files Lawsuit Against Lexus Dealership for Refusing to Hire Sikh