Working on Easter Day 2017

[Brendan Rowe]

Hi there, so I'm currently 18 years old and working at a Culver's as my first job to earn some money. I recently found out I'm working on Easter and I am a very religious person so I obviously object to that. Management did not notify me that Culver's was open on Easter this year (it was closed last year). Is it legal to fire me based on my religion having a sacred day? Sorry if I sound stupid, I am just trying to work out how not to get fired from not showing up to this shift. 

[Shelly F.]

@Brendan Rowe are you able to switch with someone else? I was an HR Manager here in IL for years, and generally management is good about accepting it when certain folks need time of for religious beliefs. With that said, notify management in writing about the situation and that you are requesting accommodation (use that word), especially since they were closed last Easter. HOWEVER, if it has been common knowledge for awhile that they are opening this Easter, and that you've had your schedule for more than a week, they could argue that you've had plenty of time/notice to get someone else to work for you.

Chances are it will all be OK! :) Just be sure to communicate with them...in writing.