Religious Discrimination

California Government Code § 12940 (a) makes it unlawful for an employer to refuse to hire, to fire, suspend, discriminate or discipline an employee, or applicant for employment, on account of their religion. And California Government Code §12940 (l) makes it unlawful for an employer to fail to accommodate an employee’s religious beliefs if they can do so without undue so without undue hardship.

Discrimination on account of religion, and failure to accommodate religious beliefs, may include denying requests for time off to observe religious holidays, or refusing to allow exceptions to dress/grooming codes (e.g., banning headscarves, kippahs, or religious facial hair) when doing so would not cause an “undue hardship” to the business. Passing an employee over for a deserved promotion or paying them less simply because they take prayer breaks or practice a certain religion. Reassigning an employee to a non-customer-facing role (like a back-office position) because they wear religious attire and the employer fears it will make clients uncomfortable. Forcing employees to participate in religious observances or mandatory prayer sessions as a condition of their employment. Firing or refusing to hire an applicant for employment because their religious attire (such as a hijab or yarmulke) violates the company’s “look policy” or dress code. Disciplining or terminating an employee for observing their Sabbath, if adjusting their shift to accommodate them would not have caused the employer an “undue hardship”. Sending an employee home or firing them for refusing to remove a religious bracelet or necklace if it doesn’t pose a safety hazard. 

If you believe that you have suffered discrimination on account of your religion or if your employer has failed to accommodate your religious beliefs, please contact  Law Offices of Ugo O. Asobie. Free Consultation. Religious discrimination cases are handled on contingency.