Article one of the Bill of Rights states that “congress shall make no law… abridging the freedom of speech.” This entitles all American citizens the right to express their thoughts and ideas, as long as it does not interfere with the freedoms of others. If someone wants to get a tattoo in remembrance of a person or event, they have the personal freedom to do so. They must understand that then others have the freedom to choose to associate with them or not.
One might argue that in this case, people more suitable for the job will be denied a position. However, in a job where you represent a company or institution, and they want to have a clean cut appearance, you will not be the most suitable. The outer appearance of somebody does not change their aptitude or capabilities, but it does change ones confidence or impression. How would you feel if the man about to operate on your heart rolls up his sleeves to reveal a giant Grim Reaper and spider web on his arm? Nervous? Is it fair that you would judge him in that way? It might not be, but we must understand that things like that will influence a company in looking to hire an employee.
I am glad that the city are taking a stand and not hiding behind a wall of obscurity. It is better that they came out and expressed their concerns and desires, rather than just turn away applicant for an unknown cause. We all have rights, but must remember that so does everyone else, including Bountiful City.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I completely agree. People say that it goes against Article one of Freedom of Speech but in reality it almost has nothing to do with that. They are not telling people they are not allowed to get tattoos at all. It is just saying that they should be hidden while working. The institution or business has every right to want to look professional. This is not discrimination in any form. They have the right to tell employees that they should be well groomed and clean cut. Just as if they tell an employee that they have to wear a uniform.
ReplyDeleteI agree with these posts. Is it unconstitutional for an employer to require one to wear a uniform, is wearing clothing you want to wear a form of freedom of speech? Some would argue yes, then how can employers require a certain uniform? That is infringing on my rights. It is one thing to say anyone with a tattoo will be denied a job than to say anyone who has a tattoo will be considered for the job but will be asked to keep it covered during their 8 hour shift.
ReplyDeleteI agree with this poster. Although everyone has the right to freedom of speech they do not have the right to do so on someone else’s clock. Companies and organizations have a right to set policies and standards while you are working for them. They do not say persons with tattoos need not apply, simply that the appearance of their company is of importance to them and they recognize that some customers might not feel as comfortable if that appearance was out of the ‘social norm’.
ReplyDeleteWhat you said is very true. Because we have certain rights doesn't mean we have to infringe them upon others. They still have the right to get tatoos they just have to be able to hide them for a nicer apperarance. Once you are an employee you are a part of something bigger. So it isn't just about you anymore, it's about what is best for the company as a whole. Making a cleaning cut environment will help with comfort levels of costumers and workers all around.
ReplyDelete