Melphine Evans, A black former executive at BP (British Petroleum Oil Co.), is suing the oil company for allegedly firing her because of her braided hair and "ethnic" attire.
The 24-page lawsuit, which was filed in California’s Orange County Superior Court, details Evans' complaints in which she seeks unspecified damages for race and gender discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination.
Several of the outrageous racially charged remarks aimed at Evans are outlined in the document, including the following:
"'You intimidate and make your colleagues uncomfortable by wearing ethnic clothing and ethnic hairstyles (Dashikis, twists, braids/cornrows)."
"If you insist on wearing ethnic clothing/hairstyles-you should only do so during 'culture day,' black history month or special diversity events/days.'"
"If you are going to wear ethnic clothing, you should alert people in advance that you will be wearing something ethnic ..."
BP executives claim that Evans, who worked at BP for nearly 10 years, was dismissed because she "did not get along well with her teammates and colleagues" and that she regularly engaged in "bullying and overly aggressive behavior." However, Evans' was given her yearly evaluation that stated: "Melphine is a people person. She engages her entire organization and is sincere in her desire to ensure all are valued and heard."
Something just doesn't add up. And BP has been tight-lipped on the matter thus far.
“Generally, BP does not publicly discuss personnel issues,” BP spokesman Scott Dean told Courthouse News Service. “However, BP treats all employees fairly. BP disagrees with the claims and will vigorously defend the suit.”
Unfortunately these type of discrimination stories have been popping up quite frequently over the past year. There was that Meteorologist who got fired for her natural hair, the Hooter's waitress that got canned for her blond highlights, and the little girl who almost got expelled from her school for rocking an afro.
Read more about Evans' case HERE and let us know what you think about the situation in the comments section below.