California workers enjoy robust employment protections that are denied to workers in many other states. California laws are designed to protect workers from illegal discrimination and acts that could affect their jobs.
But these protections are not available to all workers. Read on to learn whether your circumstances trigger any of the illegal discrimination described below.
Who enjoys these protected rights?
Workers here in the Golden State are protected from illegal discrimination due to any of the following:
- Skin color or race
- Marital status
- Workers age 40 and older
- Employees with mental or physical disabilities
- Creed or religion
- Gender-related conditions, e.g., pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and other related medical issues
- Sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity
- Those with certain medical conditions
- Genetic information
- Decisions made about reproductive health
- Status in military or as a veteran
If you are in one of the above protected classes and experienced discrimination, you may have the right to seek compensation.
Can my employer retaliate against me for complaining?
If they do, that would be another illegal action to add to your complaint, as California protects its workers from retaliation from bosses and companies for any employee whistleblower or other revelations.
What can I do?
If you suspect discrimination, documentation is your friend. Document every instance of known or perceived discrimination in the workplace. You may need to approach co-workers, vendors and others who can attest to your version of events.
Remember to print out any emails that reflect your allegations of discrimination. It’s important to do this as they are received because your access to the corporate email system will be revoked should the company terminate your employment.