Employees have the right to practice their religion without facing unlawful discrimination or harassment at work. Federal and California laws generally protect employees from adverse employment actions based on their religious beliefs, practices, or observances.
If you believe you have experienced religious discrimination in the workplace, an employment attorney in Los Angeles can help you understand your rights and the legal protections that may apply to your situation.
Reasonable Accommodations
Employees may request reasonable accommodations for sincerely held religious beliefs, practices, or observances. Depending on the circumstances, an accommodation could include schedule changes, time away from work for religious observances, or other adjustments that allow an employee to practice their religion.
For example, an employee may request time during the workday to pray or request a private space for religious observance when appropriate.
Employers generally must reasonably accommodate an employee’s religious practices unless doing so would create an undue hardship under applicable law. The type of accommodation that is appropriate depends on the employee’s religious practice, the requirements of the job, and the circumstances of the workplace.
If your employer refuses to reasonably accommodate your religious beliefs or practices, a Los Angeles employment lawyer can help you evaluate your situation.
Harassment
Harassment is another form of discrimination you may experience in the workplace. Co-workers, supervisors, and even clients of your employer are prohibited from harassing you because of your religious beliefs. Harassing behaviors include making offensive jokes or gestures, mocking you, or physically threatening your safety because of your religion.
Religious Dress
Employees can also experience discrimination when they are told they cannot wear their traditional religious dress. Employers have to accommodate your religious dress, for example, headscarves or facial hair, unless they can prove it puts an undue hardship on their business. People of all faiths must be allowed to wear their religious dress, not just those who practice well-known religions.
