Former In-N-Out Burger Employee Sues Chain Over Hairstyle Discrimination

Elijah Obeng, a 21-year-old Black former employee of In-N-Out Burger, is suing the chain for over $3 million, alleging discrimination over his hairstyle. Obeng claims he was unjustly fired after four years of employment for not complying with the company’s dress code, which required male employees to be clean-shaven and keep their hair tucked inside company-issued hats. Obeng, who braided his hair to meet the requirements, faced issues over his sideburns, which he argues are part of his cultural identity. He was allegedly sent home to shave in front of coworkers, leading to his termination a few days later. The lawsuit contends that the dress code policy violates California’s CROWN Act. In-N-Out Burger has not yet commented on the legal action. (Newser)