A part-time spa worker at Hershey's MeltSpa in Pennsylvania has filed a lawsuit claiming she was suspended for refusing to escort a transgender woman to the women's locker room on religious grounds.
Jeriah Sellers, a devout Christian, alleges that on 28 May her supervisor asked her to take a transgender client, described as a 'well-known political figure', to the women's locker room, according to the complaint. Sellers said she was uncomfortable with the request as it violated her faith, but was told another employee would handle it.
Days later, Sellers was suspended for one day and given a disciplinary warning by Hershey's human resources for violating the company's transgender policy. Her attorney, Andrea Shaw, said Sellers was told to leave her religious beliefs 'at the door'.
Hershey Entertainment & Resorts maintains that Sellers did not request a religious accommodation before or during the service, and has yet to submit a religious accommodation form despite multiple requests. The company's policy allows guests to use locker rooms that align with their gender identity.
Sellers continues to work at the spa and is seeking lost wages, punitive damages, and attorney fees. Hershey stated that it treats everyone with respect and dignity, and that Sellers remains employed.
