If they don't back down, make them fire or dismiss you. That way you have legal recourse for wrongful dismissal. If you just leave, out of frustration or because of the various social pressures, you will have limited legal options. The employers want the non-compliant to leave on their own so the employer avoids liability.

The site has a legal letter printed up......print it, sign it. When the boss reads it he’ll think twice and poop in his pants.....

This is hill to die on, don't squirm around it by trying to sneak by with an exemption. Stand tall in direct opposition. You aren't alone 🙏🇺🇲

Did they put their demand in writing?

Work it in parallel, don't put yourself at risk, this is why I contacted an attorney now. I don't want to sue, but if I need to - I am better positioned.