I work as a massage therapist at a local spa. The owner of the business is a Scientologist and today just made it mandatory to take Scientology courses in order to continue working. Before today, nothing was mentioned about any kind of religion based requirements. I myself am not a Scientologist, as is the case for many of my co-workers, and I don't want to take any courses promoting another religion. Is this legally considered a hostile work environment?

*PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE*

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from discriminating against employees because of their religion. This federal statute specifically prohibits employers from forcing employees to participate - or not participate - in a religious activity as a condition of employment.

See http://www.eeoc.gov/types/religion.html

Based upon the information you provided, you should contact the EEOC (www.eeoc.gov) to file a complaint.

Mr. Pink