I’m sorry to hear about your issue at work. Under state and federal law, treating someone differently in the workplace because of his or her religion is illegal. In California, such discrimination is illegal under the Fair Employment and Housing Act. Under federal law, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes religious discrimination at work illegal.
Specifically, two types of behavior are illegal in the workplace when it comes to an employee’s religion. First, it is illegal to discriminate against someone because of their religion when it comes to any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, benefits, or any other term of employment. Second, it is illegal to harass someone in the workplace because of their religion.
In your situation, it is possible that you are facing illegal harassment at work. Normally, harassment includes offensive remarks about a person’s religion. However, if the comments are simple teasing and they do not occur very often, they may not be illegal. If the harassment is so serious or happens so often that it creates a hostile work environment, it’s illegal and the victim can sue.
In your situation, you should speak with a Los Angeles employment attorney who can help advise you on the best course of action to take. Call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles religious discrimination attorney, at 310-385-0567. I can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation on your case.