Discrimination based on religion refers to the unfair or unequal treatment of individuals or groups because of their religious beliefs or practices. This form of discrimination can manifest in various settings, including the workplace discrimination.
The sections below define religious discrimination and explain what rights you have if you’ve experienced unlawful treatment due to your religion.
Overview of Religious Discrimination
Religious discrimination occurs when someone is treated less favorably because of their religion or belief system. This includes traditional, organized religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, as well as other sincerely held religious, ethical, or moral beliefs. It also protects individuals who are atheist or agnostic and those who choose not to follow any religion.
Discrimination can take various forms, both direct and indirect:
- Direct discrimination: Occurs when a person is explicitly treated worse than others due to their religion. For example, if a qualified job applicant is denied a position solely because they wear a hijab or yarmulke, this is a form of religious discrimination.
- Indirect discrimination: Happens when a policy or practice applies to everyone but disproportionately disadvantages individuals of a certain religion. For example, a company dress code that prohibits all head coverings may indirectly discriminate against individuals whose religions require them to wear one.
- Harassment based on religion: This can include offensive jokes, slurs, or intimidation, and also falls under the umbrella of unlawful discrimination when it creates a hostile environment.
In the United States, religious discrimination is primarily addressed through Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Protections Against Religious Discrimination
Title VII prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants because of their religion. It also requires employers to reasonably accommodate an employee’s religious beliefs or practices unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the business.
Examples of accommodations may include:
- Flexible scheduling to allow for religious observances
- Permitting religious dress or grooming
- Modifying job duties that conflict with religious beliefs
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces these protections and provides guidelines to help employers and employees understand their rights and obligations.
Beyond the workplace, other laws also protect against religious discrimination:
- The Fair Housing Act prohibits religious discrimination in housing-related transactions.
- The Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title IV) also applies to public education institutions.
- The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) and state equivalents.
These laws provide a robust framework of protections for employees.
What Damages Can You Recover Under Title VII?
Individuals who experience religious discrimination can file complaints with relevant authorities such as the EEOC or state human rights agencies. In some cases, civil lawsuits may provide a route to compensation.
Victims of religious discrimination in employment may be entitled to various remedies under Title VII.
These may include:
- Compensation for lost wages and benefits due to wrongful termination or failure to promote.
- Reinstatement to a former position or front pay to cover future lost earnings.
- Compensatory damages for emotional distress, inconvenience, mental anguish, etc.
Prevailing plaintiffs may also recover reasonable legal fees and court costs. Additionally, courts may order the employer to stop discriminatory practices and implement new policies or training.
Contact a Phoenix Religious Discrimination Attorney From Houk Employment Attorneys for Help Today
Religious discrimination is unlawful and robs the workplace of diversity and productivity. If you were a victim of religious discrimination, you may be entitled to take legal action. An EEOC complaint or Title VII lawsuit may provide you with the remedy or compensation you need to move forward after experiencing unlawful treatment based on your religion.
Houk Employment Attorneys can help you understand your rights and legal options. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with our Phoenix religious discrimination lawyers to learn more.
Our employment law firm is conveniently located near you, with an office in Phoenix, AZ.
Houk Employment Attorneys
1850 N Central Ave Suite 2010, Phoenix, AZ 85004
(480) 569-2377
