A university administrator is taking the University of Westminster to an employment tribunal, alleging a campaign of racial harassment that culminated in a senior manager banning a Christmas tree for being a symbol of 'white supremacy'.
The shocking claim, filed by Ms T Odubela, details an alleged pattern of discriminatory behaviour from her boss, head of student records Michelle Reid. The dispute came to a head in November when Ms Odubela and her team were reportedly forbidden from putting up their traditional office Christmas tree.
According to the legal claim, Ms Reid declared the festive symbol was a sign of 'white supremacy' and therefore inappropriate for the workplace. The incident is cited as a central example of the alleged racially charged environment the claimant was subjected to.
Ms Odubela, who is of Nigerian heritage, is suing the university for racial harassment, victimisation, and discrimination. The case file states she felt 'shocked, offended and victimised' by the comments regarding the Christmas tree and other alleged actions.
The University of Westminster has acknowledged the proceedings, confirming it is defending the claims. A spokesperson for the institution stated, "The University is defending these claims and cannot comment on ongoing legal proceedings."
This case shines a light on the complex intersection of festive traditions, cultural sensitivity, and alleged discrimination within a modern UK workplace, setting a potential legal precedent for how such disputes are handled.
