Federal Anti-Discrimination Law
Employees who are harassed and discriminated against are protected by federal and state law. Employers cannot discriminate against employees or potential employees based on their religion, gender, race, color, age, national origin, disability, pregnancy, military status, genetic information or sexual orientation. Educational institutions, and public accommodations, are also prohibited from discriminating against individuals.
Examples of discrimination may appear straightforward as in cases of sexual harassment by a supervisor. However, many other acts of discrimination occur, but are harder to identify. These may include:
Not being hired or promoted due to discrimination;
Not receiving the same salary or benefits for the same work when compared to other colleagues;
A hostile work environment; or
The removal of job duties.
Unlawful Retaliation Under Federal Law
Federal law prevents employers from retaliating against employees for complaining about discrimination, asking for accommodations or leave, engaging in speech protected by the First Amendment, and engaging in other protected activities.