Everyone deserves to work in a respectful, fair and non-discriminatory workplace. Unfortunately, there are employees who face discrimination based on race. There are options to address it.
Workplace discrimination
Religious discrimination in the workplace is against the law and happens when an employee is treated unfairly because of their religious practices and beliefs. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects people who belong to organized religions as well as those who have sincerely held beliefs.
Religious discrimination can appear in hiring and firing, when the employer creates a hostile work environment, treats the employee differently from other workers or provides the employee with limited opportunities.
Employees may be assigned less favorable job duties, denied promotions and may not be invited to attend meetings with other colleagues. If the employee experiences intimidation or offensive comments based on their religion, that is also discrimination.
Also, if an employee is retaliated against for reporting religious discrimination or for filing a complaint, that is against the law.
Addressing the conduct
Employees who believe they have been discriminated against based on religion should keep detailed records of any instances. This includes documenting the date, time, what happened and the names of any witnesses.
Within most companies, the employee has an option to file an internal complaint by reporting their concerns to their supervisor or human resources department. They may also have the option to participate in alternative dispute resolution.
Employees can also file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This agency can review the situation and take appropriate action.