Can I Make My Jewish Employee Work on Christian Holidays?

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‘Double-Dipping’ Holidays

Easter is already behind us, so I’m going to answer your question in a more general sense. Short version: Though you’re within your rights to ask your employee to work a Christian holiday, does that mean you should? No. (Presumably, these are companywide holidays; also, some of them, like Christmas, are national holidays.)

For one thing, she’ll definitely feel she’s being singled out. (That’s because she is.)

Second, you say, “As manager, I cover any issues that arise on holidays like Christmas and Good Friday.” This is as it should be. That is your job. Even if it takes you away from your family on Christmas, which, of course, is regrettable. And, I imagine, incredibly frustrating.

Speaking of frustration, I sense some irritation and resentment on your part, particularly when you accuse your employee of “double-dipping,” which makes it sound as if she’s doing something wrong by taking off religious holidays, some of which are central to her faith.

Too harsh? Not sympathetic enough? Let me rephrase. I think that giving your employee the opportunity to take off Jewish holidays, without using P.T.O. or sick days, is admirable and generous. But if you’re going to talk the talk, you have to also walk the walk and not penalize your employee for her faith or (silently) accuse her of doing something wrong.