EEOC sues Apple over alleged religious discrimination in Virginia

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed a lawsuit against Apple, accusing the company of failing to reasonably accommodate the religious observance of a long-time customer advisor at an Apple Store in Virginia who observed the Sabbath. The suit alleges Apple did not adequately consider the employee’s religious obligations when addressing scheduling and job requirements.

Filed Tuesday, the EEOC says the company’s actions amount to religious discrimination under federal law. The case highlights ongoing tensions between employer scheduling policies and employees’ religious practices.

What to know

• Who: EEOC v. Apple
• Where: Apple Store in Virginia, USA
• When: Lawsuit filed Tuesday (reported August/September 2023 originally)

Thoughts? Should employers be required to change schedules or duties to accommodate religious observance?