Media Advisory: CAIR-Chicago Files Discrimination Complaint on Behalf of Muslim Bank Employee

(CHICAGO, IL, 7/1/09)The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago) filed a complaint in federal court today on behalf of a Muslim woman who claims to have suffered harassment at her workplace where she served as a personal banker. The woman, an American-Muslim of Turkish descent, alleges that she was harassed repeatedly by co-workers and management at the Bridgeview Bank Group (Lincolnshire branch). Despite complaining to her manager about the coworkers' harassment, the manager refused to address the problem and instead began treating the woman less favorably, providing less training and stricter work standards. The Director of Human Resources also failed to address the woman's complaints.

After being denied a transfer to another branch, the woman felt compelled to resign.

"Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 mandates that employers prevent and rectify harassment that employees face based on their religion or national origin," said CAIR-Chicago Staff Attorney Kevin Vodak. "In this country, no one should have to endure discrimination in their workplace."

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued a right to sue notice on May 1, 2009.

CAIR-Chicago is a chapter of America's largest Muslim civil rights group, which has 33 offices and chapters nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

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CONTACT: Amina Sharif, Communications Coordinator, CAIR-Chicago, E-Mail: asharif@cair.com; 312.212.1520 or 630.935.5562; Kevin Vodak, Attorney, CAIR-Chicago, E-Mail: civilrights@cairchicago.org; 312.212.1520.