Target’s Dirty Secret Exposed – What Happens When You Trust in Jesus!

In a surprising turn of events, Target has reinstated an employee who was fired for wearing a handwritten nametag that read, “trust in Jesus.” The incident sparked debate over workplace policies and religious expression, eventually leading the retailer to issue a formal apology and offer the former employee her job back.

Fired Over a Nametag?

Denise Kendrick, a cashier in Fargo, North Dakota, and a devoted Christian, claimed she was dismissed for violating the company’s dress code. Her offense? Adding the phrase “trust in Jesus” to her nametag alongside her name. Kendrick explained that she had been wearing the badge to work since Halloween without incident.

But on a Saturday shift, her manager approached her and allegedly objected to the message. According to Kendrick, the manager said, “You can’t wear that nametag.” Surprised, Kendrick responded, “‘Well, I’ve seen people with rainbows on theirs. I’m going to continue to wear this nametag.’” The conversation escalated, and she was reportedly told, “‘Well, you can’t work here anymore.’”

A Confusing Termination

Kendrick’s dismissal left her baffled. She noted in a video on her YouTube channel that she had worn Christian-themed shirts to work for months without issue. “Just because Target is exclusive and they can express their beliefs (does not mean) that my religious freedom is lost,” she said.

Adding to her frustration, the manager reportedly refused to provide a written explanation for her termination. Instead, Kendrick was given a sheet of phone numbers to call for clarification. Feeling blindsided, she questioned why her simple expression of faith through a nametag was being treated differently from other forms of personal expression in the workplace.

Target’s Response

The controversy quickly gained attention, with critics pointing to Target’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy, which explicitly prohibits discrimination and affirms that religious beliefs should not hinder an employee’s experience. As the situation drew scrutiny, Target launched an internal review.

In a statement to a local news station, Target acknowledged the mistake, saying, “Upon learning of the situation, we conducted a review and determined that the team member should not have been terminated. We apologized to her and offered to reinstate her immediately.” The company also committed to addressing the actions of the manager involved and ensuring proper adherence to its policies moving forward.

A Second Chance

Kendrick accepted the retailer’s offer to return to her role and expressed optimism about resuming her position. “They offered it to me immediately,” she shared in another YouTube video. “I enjoyed my job at Target, and I’m going to enjoy it again.” Kendrick was set to return to work on Thursday.

The incident has reignited conversations about balancing corporate policies with individual freedoms. For Kendrick, the resolution offers a chance to continue her work while standing by her beliefs. Meanwhile, Target’s quick response demonstrates a willingness to acknowledge missteps and improve.

Moving Forward

As Kendrick prepares to rejoin her team, Target faces the task of rebuilding trust and ensuring its DEI policy is upheld consistently. The apology and swift resolution may have closed one chapter, but the broader discussion about religious expression in the workplace is far from over.