Ethnically Speaking by Larry Meeks

Dear Larry: I am a biracial female married to a biracial man of like parentage. Both of our fathers are white and Puerto Rican. Both of our mothers are African American. Therefore, we are obviously biracial and have Hispanic surnames.

My husband happens to be Muslim, not to be confused with the Nation of Islam. In order for us to be equally tied together, I recently converted to his religion. This has created a real problem for our family.

I lost my job after I started to wear the traditional headscarf and have not been able to find another one that pays a decent wage. I am an experienced paralegal and considered to be smart. I graduated No. 2 in my class for paralegal training, plus I am almost finished getting my master's degree.

In my employment search, I have tried placement agencies and online career sites. I have left employment applications with the local and state governments, although these positions pay about $10,000 below my last salary. I am hoping to hear from them soon.

If you have any advice on employment opportunities or employment networks for people in similar situations, I would appreciate hearing from you.

I have tried contacting various Muslim organizations for advice, but have never received a response. — Sarah

Dear Sarah: You stated you lost your job after you started wearing your traditional headscarf. Are you sure that is the reason you lost the job? There could be a number of reasons you lost the job and it may have nothing to do with wearing the scarf.

If were fired because of your religion, you are a victim of discrimination. If you believe that is true, file a claim with the state or federal agencies.

Discrimination is not always easy to prove. Make sure you have evidence, not just your suspicions. 

Regarding re-employment, I hope you read last week's column. It was about an employer stating what he/she is looking for in a potential employee.

It is obvious the writer is biased and will find reasons not to hire people wearing clothing, skin ornaments and certain piercings. Whether or not the employer is right has nothing to do with the fact that the employer is doing the hiring. People make judgments about others based on how they look and whether or not their looks are good for business.

You are in that situation. Your scarf may be the reason you are not getting re-hired. If that is true, you need to make a decision.

Next week I will share reader's reactions to what the employer wants his prospective employees to look like. You might gain some insight.

Dear Larry: I want to thank you for solving a problem between my daughter and I. If you will recall, my daughter wanted to go to a college I did not like. We were at a complete impasse. You suggested that I put together a list of 10 colleges and let her pick one.

Larry, I did just that. My daughter chose one of them on the list. She told me that particular college was her No. 1 choice but thought I would never approve.

Time is getting short before she leaves, and I am cherishing every moment we are now spending together. We are laughing and talking like long lost friends instead of being constantly angry.

You were a blessing to my daughter and me. Again, thank you. — Happy Mom

Dear Mom: I am glad I was there for you. May you both keep your happiness.

To find out more about Larry Meeks, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

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