Company Apologizes to Virginia Muslim Woman Denied Service Over Hijab

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 11/12/10) --

CAIR is welcoming an apology and a change of policy offered by a Virginia-based convenience store chain following a November 9 incident in which a Muslim woman was allegedly denied service at one of the chain's stores in that state because she wore hijab.

Yesterday, CAIR called on Valero Fas Mart to investigate the incident, reprimand the clerk involved, apologize to the Muslim customer, and institute sensitivity training for staff -- all of which the company has agreed to do, according to a statement it released.

CAIR Video: Company Apologizes to Va. Muslim Denied Service Over Hijab

CAIR: Va. Muslim Denied Service Over Religious Head Scarf

CAIR: Store Changes Policy on Head Coverings (Washington Post)

In its statement, Fas Mart called the incident "regrettable" and added:

"The company has suspended the clerk involved in this incident, pending further investigation.

"The company offers this statement as its formal written apology to her. The manager of the store apologized in person to her when she returned to the store on Wednesday.

"Finally, the company intends to ask CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations) to advise our training personnel about sensitivity issues in dealing with the Islamic community."

SEE: Fas Mart Responds to Denied Service Incident

"We welcome Fas Mart's quick response to this incident and thank all those who contacted the company to express their concerns," said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper.

Hooper noted that Title II of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of religion in places of public accommodation and service.

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. 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.

CONTACT:

CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, or 202-488-8787,

E-Mail: ihooper@cair.com; CAIR Communications Coordinator Amina Rubin, 202-488-8787, 202-341-4171,

E-Mail: arubin@cair.com

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