Disneyland hostess claims religious discrimination over hijab policy

In Anaheim, California, Imane Boudial, 26, a hostess for the Storyteller's Restaurant in Disneyland's Grand Californian Hotel, is distressed that she cannot wear her hijab – a Muslim symbol of faith – while performing her job. Consequently, Ms. Boudial has filed a discrimination lawsuit against Disney.

She has reportedly been sent home four times without pay. However, Disneyland spokeswoman Suzi Brown said Disney does not discriminate. Ms. Brown said Ms. Boudial's hijab is not part of her assigned costume. The hotel tried to find Ms. Boudial a different position, away from the public, according to Ms. Brown, but Ms. Boudial has not opted to accept any of those jobs.

Ms. Boudial, who is originally from Morocco, became a U.S. citizen in June and has been a Disney employee for the past two-and-a-half years.

New York Theological Seminary is an institution that is dedicated to discussing interfaith issues in an environment of tolerance and celebration of differences. The mission of the seminary is to prepare men and women from various backgrounds for careers in ministry.