When people experience discrimination at work, their first instinct is often to sue immediately. It’s understandable, given that workplace discrimination is illegal under both California and federal law. However, most employment discrimination cases do not usually...
Workplace Discrimination
What distinguishes race discrimination from colorism?
Racial discrimination in the employment sector is illegal. Businesses generally cannot consider a worker's race or national origin when deciding whom to hire or promote. Employees faced with overt racism from individuals of differing backgrounds may recognize the...
When looks decide who gets hired
You’ve probably heard the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Yet in the real world, it happens every day, especially at work. Sometimes it’s not your skills, your work ethic or even your experience that people notice first. It’s how you look — and that can...
What happens after filing a formal job discrimination complaint?
You’ve taken a brave step as a victim of workplace discrimination in California and filed a complaint with the Civil Rights Department (CRD). It’s a bold move that says you’re ready to stand up for your rights, but you’re now probably wondering what happens after...
3 silent ways older employees experience age discrimination
Age discrimination at the workplace is not always loud or obvious. For many older employees, it shows up in subtle patterns that quietly affect how they are treated, the opportunities they receive and how their skills are valued. While outright bias is easier to spot...
Which professionals are at risk of actionable age discrimination?
There are multiple protected characteristics that should not influence employment opportunities. Businesses generally should not consider a worker's race, religion or sex. Their medical conditions are also typically protected characteristics as long as they can...
Pregnancy discrimination when you are not even pregnant
It is illegal for employers to discriminate on the basis of pregnancy. If you are pregnant when you apply for a job, for instance, they cannot decide to pass you over simply because of that pregnancy. If you take a job and then become pregnant, your employer cannot...
What’s the impact of workplace discrimination on mental health?
Workplace discrimination is a serious issue that can affect many different types of employees, yet it's often overlooked or downplayed. When discrimination goes unchecked, it creates a toxic environment where employees feel unappreciated or ostracized. This type of...
What are my rights to my appearance?
California’s diverse and inclusive culture celebrates individuality. However, some workplace appearance policies can clash with personal expression. Employers may set standards for tattoos, piercings or hairstyles under the guise of maintaining professionalism. So,...
New guidelines on workplace discrimination
California has long been ahead of many other states in protecting its workers against harassment and discrimination. Now, the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has published updated guidance to make it clearer than ever what sort of behavior is...

