A Chick-fil-A location in Harrisburg, North Carolina, sent a 16-year-old worker home due to her blonde braids.
A 16-year-old employee at Chick-fil-A in Harrisburg, North Carolina, was sent home after her supervisor deemed the blonde color in her braids “unnatural.”
Autumn Williams, who had worked at the restaurant for three months, was approached by a manager last month. The supervisor informed her that the blonde color violated the company’s uniform policy.
Chick-fil-A’s hair color policy and employee experience
Autumn Williams, employed at the fast food restaurant for three months, was told her hair color violated company policy.
Williams was caught off guard when she was asked to leave and return after removing the blonde color from her hair. The supervisor explained that the color was considered “unnatural” for her.
Williams felt embarrassed and singled out, especially since she noted that other coworkers had similarly colored hair. “The guy never mentioned anything about my hair during orientation,” she said.
No clear guidelines on hair color in employee handbook
When Williams approached human resources to clarify the situation, she was directed to review the employee handbook.
However, the “grooming” section contained no mention of what is considered an unnatural hair color.
Williams decided to leave voluntarily, with her mother, Nina Burch, supporting her decision.
Williams’ mother, Nina Burch, fully supported her daughter and emphasized the need for sensitivity training at the company.
Burch explained that braids are a protective style for people of their culture, and the blonde color was not eccentric.
Burch emphasized the importance of sensitivity training. “This is a protective style for us,” Burch stated, highlighting that the color in Williams’ hair was not eccentric.
The importance of embracing diversity in the workplace
Burch also questioned the notion of defining what people can look like based on their race. “Who’s to say what anyone can look like?” she asked.
Williams expressed her pride in staying true to herself. “I was glad that I didn’t have to change myself to fit into someone else’s ideal image,” she shared. Williams found another job and was content with her decision.
Chick-fil-A’s response about the incident
After the incident, Chick-fil-A issued a statement clarifying the situation. The company explained that the supervisor’s interpretation of the policy was incorrect and that Williams had not been terminated.
‘The operator reached out to (Autumn) Williams today and had a good conversation. In further detail,’ the statement read. ‘The operator explained that the policy was misinterpreted and said Williams was not terminated and she’s more than welcome to come back and work at the restaurant,’ the statement read.
They extended an invitation for her to return to work at the restaurant. However, Williams declined the offer.
Her mother and Williams are considering legal action, while the teen has filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.