Moxies Faces Backlash for Dismissing Workers who Supported National March for Gaza
Moxies, a well-known restaurant chain, is facing criticism after dismissing four employees who openly expressed their support for the National March for Gaza. The employees were seen cheering on the steps of a Moxies restaurant in Toronto during the protest. The company’s decision to terminate the workers has sparked outrage and sparked a debate about freedom of expression.
The controversy began when journalist Caryma Sa’d posted a video on social media showing the employees cheering in solidarity with the protest. The video quickly went viral, garnering over 890,000 views. B’nai Brith Canada, an independent Jewish Human Rights organization, reported that the employees are “no longer working at Moxies” following a two-week deliberation period.
Moxies responded to the video, stating that the conduct of the employees does not align with the company’s values. The company emphasized that participating in demonstrations while in uniform or on the premises is strictly prohibited. Moxies apologized for any negative impact caused by the actions of the employees and announced that a formal investigation has been launched.
However, employment lawyer Muneeza Sheikh has questioned Moxies’ initial response. Sheikh believes the company should have determined whether the event in question was explicitly anti-Israel or a peaceful demonstration in solidarity with Palestinian civilians. Sheikh argues that attending gatherings that incite hatred towards a specific group could be grounds for termination, but employers should not act rashly and risk wrongful termination cases.
The dismissal of the employees has sparked heated discussions on social media, with some users calling for a boycott of Moxies. Others have expressed support for the company’s decision, commending them for taking a stand.
As the controversy continues, Moxies finds itself at the center of a larger debate surrounding freedom of expression in the workplace. The outcome of this situation may have implications for both employees and employers as they navigate the boundaries of personal beliefs and corporate policies.