I think if someone has a strong personal belief in something (I wouldn't go as far as "faith") then it's pretty reasonable for an employer to take that into account when deciding if they can have a day off, especially if it's not in a peak leave period, like the school holidays, which the summer solstice isn't, generally.

It's probably better that than people taking a sickie isn't it (which presumably they might if the reason was important enough to them)?

Also - and this is going to sound a bit touchy-feely - perhaps it will help strengthen the relationship between the person and their employer, as understanding someone's reasons for doing things is generally a good thing and the person might feel more "valued". Dialogue between worker and manager isn't generally a bad thing. Once the employer realises how important taking particular, selected days off is to you, they might even be more accommodating and take less persuading the next time.

I think unpaid time off is a good compromise. Personally, if I had a business, I would be happy with that solution.

I'm not against the proposition, I just don't think it should be forced upon people under the name of PC. Ironically, freedom is being eroded by political correctness, even though it gives some freedom to others. That is what I disagree with, not an employer giving someone time off for their religious beliefs.

As for Christmas and Easter, well that has always been the case, and employers have had it planned into their year for as long as can be remembered. The extra unexpected stuff is what puts the pressure on.

There will always be "good" employers and "bad" ones. I use inverted commas because it's all relative. I have what I consider to be a good employer. Friends of mine say they have good employers too, but their terms and conditions, not to mention pension schemes, are nowhere near as good as mine. I would probably view their employers as bad, simply due to my current experience.

All the best,

TE.