An Omaha bank has revised its security policy after a Muslim woman wasn’t allowed inside because of her head scarf.
The woman said she was told to remove her hijab before she would be allowed in the bank at 78th and Cass streets, despite her response that she couldn’t take it off for religious reasons.
Security National Bank released a statement about the policy:
“Security National Bank has announced that it is clarifying its posted security policy for walk-in customers and visitors at all of its locations.
The bank revised its security policy to clarify that only items that obscure portions of a walk-in visitor’s face must be removed. Religious head coverings that do not obscure the face are certainly allowed and have been in the past. The recent situation was an unfortunate misunderstanding.
Security National Bank’s objective has always been the safety and security of its customers and employees. This will remain at the forefront of the bank’s policies, while at the same time continuing to respect and accommodate the diverse community they serve.”
The Council on American-Islamic Relations applauded the change:
“We welcome Security National Bank’s prompt change in policy allowing customers of all faiths to obtain financial services while maintaining their constitutionally-protected religious freedom,” said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad.
Awad added that the update will also protect Sikh men who wear turbans, Jewish men who wear yarmulkes and Christian woman who wear habits or bonnets.
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