Toronto tells contractors to rehire Sikh security guards laid off over facial hair

After a complaint from the World Sikh Organization of Canada, City of Toronto announced Monday evening ensuring security contractors to accommodate all employees who lost their jobs, over what’s being described by some as a”clean-shave” directive.

Over 100 Sikh security guards employed by companies with the City have been removed from for not shaving their beards, which employees and advocates have said are a requirement of their faith.

The city policy relating to N95 mask fitting states that the face coverings should be worn against bare skin.

“The City has directed these contractors to accommodate their employees who have requested religious exemptions and to reinstate any employee whose employment was terminated, immediately,” the City wrote.