Hostess rebuffs Disney’s offer to wear specially designed hat instead of Muslim head scarf

Hostess won’t wear Disney’s head scarf alternative

ANAHEIM, Calif. — A woman who accused the Disney Co. of discrimination for refusing to let her wear a Muslim head scarf at work says she won’t wear a specially designed hat instead.

Imane Boudlal, who’s a restaurant hostess at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, says Disney’s suggested hat-and-bonnet is embarrassing and makes a joke of her religion.

She has gone home without pay seven times rather than remove her hijab or accept jobs away from customers.

Disney spokeswoman Suzi Brown says the head covering accommodates both Boudlal’s beliefs and Disney costuming guidelines. She says it was one of several options Disney made after Boudlal requested alterations to her approved apparel.

Last week, Boudlal filed a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.