A man who applied to a job as a flight attendant for Republic Airways says the airline refused to interview him because of his tattoos and they violated civil rights laws by doing so.
Christopher Brooks of Florida applied for a job with the Indianapolis-based airline. The airline was not aware of his tattoos on his arms at first since he was wearing long sleeves.
The airline told him that they had too many applicants so they asked him to tell them if he had any tattoos. When he showed them his inked arms, they said he could no longer apply for the position.While this may be standard in the hiring process, Brooks said they may have violated state civil rights but now allowing him to continue with the interview.
Brooks was aware that there may be an issue with his tattoos but he was previously a flight attendant for another airline.
Republic Airways has a policy where women with tattoos can sign a waiver stating that they'll cover them, but it apparently doesn't apply to men, according to WIBC. Tattoos on the arms could easily be concealed by the long-sleeved standard uniform shirt.
"Records show that female employees were permitted to sign a waiver indicating they would agree to conceal their tattoos. However, the alleging party was informed he was not eligible to sign this waiver," said ICRC Deputy Director Akia Haynes, according to The Indy Channel.
The state has determined that there is enough evidence to support the claim that the Indiana Civil Rights Law has been violated, however the man has more to prove. He must show that he was qualified for the job and that a less-qualified female applicant was chosen over him or the job is still open.
Brooks has since started training with another airline. Republic Airways did not comment on the issue.
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