Woman Asks If She Should Report Coworker For Mocking Her Religious Beliefs

"I have been witness to holier-than-thou people enough in my life to know how obnoxious and unwelcome it is"

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• September 7, 2023

Working in a small company can be a rewarding experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie and close-knit teamwork. However, sometimes, even in such environments, issues can arise that challenge the harmony of the workplace.

One employee, the OP of this story, has been grappling with a persistent problem - religious discrimination. OP joined the company two years ago and initially enjoyed a positive work atmosphere.

Most of her colleagues were amicable, and she cherished his job. OP identifies as a practicing Christian, a faith she holds dear, but she's never been one to impose his beliefs on others. Her religious practices are private and respectful.

However, a coworker, Bob, has taken it upon himself to repeatedly make snide remarks about OP's faith, seemingly without any provocation. These comments started innocuously with mild questions but quickly escalated into disrespectful jibes.

OP's religious beliefs were not a topic of conversation until Bob began to notice subtle signs, like a small cross necklace and a brief, quiet prayer before meals. Bob's remarks, such as implying OP is holier-than-thou or making sarcastic comments about her faith, have become incessant.

OP, trying to maintain professionalism, eventually snapped at Bob when faced with a particularly rude assumption about her beliefs. However, this only offered temporary relief, as Bob resumed his derogatory comments.

OP faces a dilemma - whether to confront his boss about the issue. She fears that doing so could escalate the situation in the small company, where office drama tends to spread like wildfire.

Yet, OP has the right to work in an environment free from discrimination and hostility.

OP is employed at a small company where he finds satisfaction in his work and appreciates the friendly atmosphere. Nevertheless, there's a colleague named Bob who regularly makes sarcastic comments concerning OP's Christian beliefs.

OP's coworker began by posing some inquiries regarding the OP's religious beliefs. However, these inquiries eventually evolved into sarcastic and scornful comments

OP considering talking to his boss, even though he is worried it might cause office drama

OP's coworker's behavior is beyond mockery; it's harassment and bullying

OP should maintain a record of each incident, noting dates, details, and witnesses

OP needs to start documenting all incidents from now on.

It's important for OP to report this to his boss, as Bob's actions are creating a hostile work environment

OP should go to HR if the situation continues as it's unacceptable

It's essential for OP to involve his boss in a conversation to ensure he can work in a harassment-free environment

OP could address the individual's conduct or contemplate seeking a more secure work environment.

Reporting him to the supervisor is OP's right, especially since he ignored OP's requests to stop

OP needs to report religious harassment

Religious harassment at work is illegal.

When people at work bother you because of your religion, it's against the law and just plain wrong. OP should definitely tell your boss about it.

If her boss doesn't do anything, she needs to tell someone higher up. Also, she needs to keep a record of what happened, like when it happened, what he said, who said it, and if there were any witnesses. This can be useful if OP needs to take legal action.

Damjan