The Department of Justice (DOJ) has requested the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to investigate Major League Baseball (MLB) regarding allegations of discrimination against three Christian players. These players inscribed Bible verses on their hats during a Pride Night game last week.
In a letter to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, stated that the matter has been referred to the EEOC for further investigation. Dhillon indicated on social media that the EEOC is expected to look into the situation.
Dhillon criticized MLB for allegedly allowing players to wear messages such as 'Black Lives Matter' while warning Christian players against displaying Bible verses. EEOC Chairwoman Andrea Lucas noted that she could not confirm or deny the existence of an investigation but emphasized the agency's commitment to addressing religious discrimination.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act mandates that employers accommodate employees' religious beliefs and prohibits discrimination in employment practices. The inquiry pertains to the response from MLB regarding the three San Francisco Giants pitchers who wrote 'Gen 9:12-16' on their caps, referencing a Bible passage. Although the players were not sanctioned, they received warnings about future violations, with MLB citing its content-neutral policy as justification.
Dhillon has accused MLB of maintaining a double standard, allowing social justice messages while restricting religious expressions. The DOJ has expressed readiness to take action if necessary, with Dhillon previously advising MLB to prepare for legal challenges amid criticism from several Republican lawmakers.