British Airways employee who won landmark legal battle to wear a crucifix at work launches fresh tribunal claim against airline for ‘victimisation and harassment’ over her whistleblowing
- Nadia Eweida won a claim against BA in European Court of Human Rights in 2013
- Airport check-in worker claims the publicity singled her out for mistreatment
- In fresh claim, airline managers are accused of victimisation of the 67-year-old
Nadia Eweida won a claim of religious discrimination against BA in the European Court of Human Rights in 2013
A British Airways employee who won a landmark legal battle to wear a crucifix at work has launched a fresh tribunal claim against the airline for alleged harassment over her whistleblowing.
Nadia Eweida won a claim of religious discrimination against BA in the European Court of Human Rights in 2013 after being sent home for wearing a silver crucifix around her neck.
She had been locked in the highly publicised legal dispute since falling foul of a new employee clothing policy in 2006 – a case that ignited debate, but was rejected by the British courts.
The airport check-in worker, who still works for BA, alleges the publicity singled her out for mistreatment when she returned to her role in 2007.
In a new employment tribunal claim, airline managers are accused of victimisation, harassment and punishing the 67-year-old for whistleblowing.
It is alleged they treated her rudely and harshly in the wake of the furore.
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Among the reported episodes was an incident in March 2017 when Ms Eweida was denied a break after experiencing strain on her eyes in the wake of an operation.
She was instead told to cover a flight gate – and given a written warning by management when she refused to do so.
A further uniform policy introduced in July 2017 required female staff to tuck their cravat in their blouse, meaning Ms Eweida had to wear her crucifix on top of her cravat – a move she claimed was designed to affect her.
The airport check-in worker, who still works for BA, alleges the publicity singled her out for mistreatment when she returned to her role in 2007
She hopes to win compensation, a declaration and recommendations from her claim, which is due before Watford Tribunal Hearing Centre on October 26 for a preliminary hearing.
Ms Eweida, who wants to remain at the company, said: “It is victimisation over the years as a result of the cross case; they have never forgiven me and they never let it go.
“I want my day in court. For me, it’s for my self-respect.”
She added: “It is my heartfelt wish that a positive outcome for this case will set a precedent ensuring the protection of others in the workplace.”
Ms Eweida has launched a CrowdJustice fundraising page in an effort to stump off £30,000 to help cover her legal costs.
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