Greetings every one. I have a question: The Civil Rights Act of '64 Title VII protect against discrimination involving culture. Why is there such a struggle with dreadlocks in the workplace? I have been considering them so I have been looking up more info on them in the workplace and have gotten mixed information. Most people only know about the "religious" protection but they are covered under cultural protection. So far, I haven't found a law contradicting this in any state or federal site. Can any one clarify the issue for me? Thanks.

Unless I'm not reading an accurate copy (http://usinfo.state.gov/usa/infousa/laws/majorlaw/civilr19.htm) I don't find "culture" mentioned in the Act.

Even if dreadlocks could be called a Religious Expression, then it would still depend on how the court rules when someone sues over it... so until someone sues (and there is precedent) then employers can prohibit stuff like that if they wish.

(I have no experience in such matters, but am an employer. This is just my take on it from what I've read and heard over the discrimination issue)