Case A

Richard Peterson v Hewlett Packard (HP)

Richard Petersen, a devout Christian, had worked for HP for 21 years in its Boise, Idaho office. HP is noted for its diversity efforts such as same-sex (and heterosexual) partner benefits and a non-harassment policy that includes sexual orientation, among other things. As part of its overall workforce diversity campaign, HP began displaying diversity posters. The posters were photos of HP employees who represented different aspects of diversity (i.e. Black, Hispanic, gay). Peterson objected to the poster that displayed a gay male, an in response to that poster Peterson posted Bible scriptures condemning homosexuality on his cubicle. The scriptures were written in a sufficiently large type to be seen by his co-workers, customers, and others in the office area.

Although Peterson's supervisors allowed him to regularly park his car which had anti-homosexual bumper stickers on it, they demanded that he remove the Bible passages because they were inconsistent with HP's non-harassment policy. Peterson objected and said that he would remove his scriptures if the "gay" posters were removed because they offended Christian employees. When he refused any other compromise, management gave Peterson time off with pay to reconsider. After the paid time off, Peterson returned to work, posted the scriptures again, and was fired. Peterson when to the EEOC to complain of religious discrimination.

Case B

Albert Buonnano v AT&T

Albert Buonanno, a devout Catholic, worked for AT&T Broadband in Denver. Buonnano was described as a model employee, who befriended and helped others, including transgender and gay employees. As part of AT&T's diversity program, Buonnano was told that he needed to sign an agreement stating he would value fellow employees and their behaviors. Buonnano stated that he could tolerate other religions and love and appreciate other people but could not value homosexuality or other religious beliefs.

When Buonnano was fired for refusing to sign the document, he sued AT&T under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, alleging religious discrimination. He asked for compensatory damages to cover his lost wages and contributions to his 401K plan, emotional distress, interest, and punitive damages.

Answer the following mandatory question:

Who do you think won in each case? Explain the reason for your decision.