Muslim Drivers Claim Hostile Work Environment at Orlando Taxi Co.

Eight Florida Muslims have filed employment-discrimination complaints against an Orlando taxi company, alleging a hostile work environment.

The Arab-American employees claim that Star Taxi discriminated against them and their Islam religion by prohibiting them from praying.

One of the complainants, a driver named Mohamed Foued Benhassine, was allegedly terminated for praying at the back of the Premium Orlando Outlet parking lot while on his break.

The complaints were to be filed with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission by the Miami law firm of Hudson & Calleja.

"It's pretty outrageous to bar Muslim employees from praying in private on their breaks when other employees are smoking or reading their Bibles or going to the bathroom," said Hassan Shibly, director of the Florida Council of American-Islamic Relations.

If the EEOC does not resolve the dispute within 180 days, Shibly said, the plaintiffs will file a lawsuit in federal court. Benhassine is seeking his job back, along with back pay.

The other seven, Shibly said, "are afraid of being fired."

Reached by Sunshine State News, Star Taxi president Robert Gaye said in a statement:

"Over the course of more than 25 years in business and with a diverse group of hundreds of drivers representing all walks of life, Star Taxi has never previously faced an allegation of discrimination.

"We have built a culture of acceptance and tolerance among all of those who have driven for Star Taxi through the years. For the safety of the drivers and our customers, we have requested that they engage in prayer outside of high-traffic areas.

"Our primary concern is ensuring the safety and security of our customers and drivers."