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Hard to believe but it happened that someone got into trouble for it:Florida woman claims 'Merry Christmas' greeting got her fired
PENSACOLA, Fla. — A Florida woman claims a vacation rental company fired her because she used "'Merry Christmas" to greet callers.
Thirty-five-year-old Tonia Thomas says she lost her job after failing to use the company-mandated greeting of "Happy Holidays."
The Panama City woman and self-described strong Christian has filed a federal complaint that accuses the company of religious discrimination.
She has since found another job since her Dec. 10th firing, but for less money and is seeking compensation for lost wages.
Her former employer, Counts-Oakes Resorts Properties Inc., says it's no Scrooge.
It describes the woman as just a disgruntled employee, but refuses to elaborate.
Liberty Counsel, an Orlando-based legal group that advocates for people discriminated against because of their religion, is representing Thomas before the federal Equal Opportunity Employment Commission.
Their complaint also accuses the company of harassing and taunting Thomas after she was fired by calling the police to watch her pack her belongs and leave.
Their complaint also accuses the company of harassing and taunting Thomas after she was fired by calling the police to watch her pack her belongs and leave.
Thomas could have hard time winning the case, said Thomas Harper, a Jacksonville-based labour lawyer who writes a newsletter on Florida employment law.
"I wouldn't think an employee has the right to insist (on saying Merry Christmas) unless that really is a tenet of their faith.
She would have to make a strong case that was part of her beliefs, if not, it becomes insubordination," he said.
Harper said when it comes to holiday greetings, the smartest choice might be ignoring the season.
"The best option is just not to say anything," he said.
"The best option is just not to say anything," he said.
- The Canadian Press
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