Havelock, N.C. – Gary Dean, 69, wore a neck gator with the American flag for his job at the Food Lion in Havelock, North Carolina. But, the same policy of Food Lion did not allow staff members to wear “writing, signatures or signs”. Dean’s manager told him that no one was offended by the image of the American flag, and that he was no longer allowed to wear a mask at work.
Dean is a Pte of the U.S. Air Force and decided to resign from his job at Food Singh, saying the corporate decision was against his personal values.
Food Singh said in a statement that he has “a lot of respect” for the American flag, but his policy does not allow symbols like the American flag.
The dress code is to ensure consistent and professional representation of our affiliates within our stores, Food Singh said in a statement.
After receiving national attention a week after the story, Food Lion’s path has changed. They released an updated statement, and after listening to employees and customers, they decided to change their similar policy.
“We need collaborators to write, wear masks without ignea or symbols,” Food Lions said in a tweet. We will allow associates to wear masks with the American flag that meet this standard.
It is unknown at this time what he will do after leaving the post. WECT reports.
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