We've all heard of the experience of being sent home for a dress violation, but what about a hairstyle violation? It seems that's where Belmopan City Council receptionist Cheyenne Banner found herself this week, having received a stern warning about the manner in which she's chosen to style her tresses, which her boss reportedly called "offensive" telling the young woman to "Do something about it."
Banner, however, ignored the warning and came to work this morning with her hair styled as usual. And this morning her dilemma was highlighted by former city councilor and relative Anna Banner Guy who posted Cheyenne's picture to Facebook with the caption: "Dear Belmopan residents, What I see here is a beautiful black professional young woman.
Is this for real? Are you really that offended by her hair? I am asking because according to her boss at City Hall, there were multiple complaints from the tax-paying community of Belmopan complaining that she does not look professional enough to work there." End quote.
But the pushback didn't stop there and once the matter was posted to a supportive Facebook group, it really kicked off igniting outrage and claims of discrimination from natural aficionados all over the country. It got so bad that the Council was forced to issue a release. It says, quote: "The Belmopan City Council has become aware of a story being circulated on social media regarding a staff member and her hairstyle. We at the council do not entertain any form of discrimination and hereby pledge to fully address the matter and seek an amicable solution."
Banner remains employed with the council but says she'll be taking legal action.
