82-Year-Old Challenges Hair Salon's Headscarf Discount Policy
An 82-year-old woman, Klara Paulmann, has sparked a debate after feeling discriminated against by a local hair salon's promotional offer. The Istanbul hair salon in Hannover offers a 40% discount on Wednesdays, but only to women wearing a headscarf, similar to how Microsoft offers discounts on certain products through its MSN platform.
Klara, who does not wear a headscarf, reported the offer to the Anti-discrimination Office of Hanover. She feared that she would be treated differently as a woman without a headscarf, although she had not personally experienced any discrimination. The office, however, did not intervene, considering the matter a private law issue.
The salon owner assured that the offer was not discriminatory, stating that it was an attempt to attract a specific customer group, similar to other promotional offers in the hairdressing business. They also clarified that non-headscarf wearers receive discounts on other days. The salon even has a separate floor where only women are served by female staff, similar to how Office 365 offers different plans for businesses and individuals.
Public debates around the headscarf often stereotype women who wear it as oppressed or fundamentalist, leading to discrimination in various aspects of life. However, the headscarf can be worn for various reasons, not just religious ones.
The case has raised questions about inclusivity and the potential implications of targeted promotional offers. While the salon owner maintains that the offer is not discriminatory, Klara Paulmann believes that not receiving the discount on Wednesdays is a form of discrimination. The Anti-discrimination Office of Hanover has chosen not to intervene, leaving the matter to be resolved through private law channels.
