Religious Dress in the Workplace: A Study of Muslim Women in Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis

Abstract

The study examined religious dressing at the workplace and the challenges faced by Muslim women based on their extent of coverage. Three research objectives were defined to help determine the scope of the study. The study reviewed the modesty and Immodesty theories, critically examined associated empirical studies and defined a conceptual framework to show the relationship between religious dressing, stigmatization, harassment and workplace promotion. Structured interview questions were employed in data collection from selected Muslim health workers and bankers in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis. The study found that Nurses are required to wear scrubs which consist of a matching set of loose-fitting trousers and a tunic-style top. On the other hand, respondents from the field of banking expressed that the dress code of women in the banking profession leans towards formal and professional attire. The study concluded that the wearing of the hijab was still relevant in modern society because it was a symbol of faith and supported morality. The study showed that though the byelaws did not frown on religious dressing, some Muslim women still suffered stigmatization and harassment from their colleagues or supervisors. The study recommended that religious diversity and inclusion should be promoted at the workplace, one way is by allowing minority groups to dress in keeping with the requirement of their faith. The study further recommended that there should be education on religious tolerance at the workplace. The study suggested that longitudinal studies should be conducted to examine changes in workplace attitudes and policies towards religious dress over time.