Notably, the United States was founded on certain freedoms, one of them being the freedom of religion. This is why it is unacceptable to be discriminated against in the workplace simply due to your religious beliefs. If you believe that your employer denied you this freedom, then you must take action and file a workplace discrimination claim. Continue reading to learn what constitutes religious discrimination in the workplace and how an experienced New York discrimination lawyer at Bell Law Group can support you in bringing your claim forward.
What is considered religious discrimination in the workplace?
Both New York state and federal law considers religion to be a protected class. More specifically, Title VII of the U.S. Civil Rights Act, the New York State Human Rights Law, and the New York City Human Rights Law state that it is unlawful for employers to discriminate against or otherwise treat differently any employee or applicant based on their religion. Meaning, you, as an employee, cannot be retaliated against, denied a reasonable accommodation, or harassed due to your religious beliefs. Such reasonable accommodations that your employers must supply to you, if applicable, include the following:
- Your employer must allow certain exceptions to grooming rules.
- Your employer must allow certain exceptions to dress codes.
- Your employer must permit certain shift substitutions.
- Your employer must allow you to take the day off to observe a religious holiday.
How long do I have to file a religious discrimination claim?
With all things considered, if you believe that your employer retaliated against you, denied you a reasonable accommodation, or harassed you based on your religion, then you may have a legitimate workplace discrimination claim on your hands.
Importantly, you must file your claim with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the New York State Division of Human Rights. Regardless, you will likely only have 180 days from the date of the discriminatory action to bring your claim forward. If you let this period slip away, then you will be permanently barred from taking legal action. This is why we recommend that you pick up the phone and consult with a skilled New York employee rights lawyer as immediately as you can.
CONTACT THE BELL LAW GROUP, PLLC TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS
If your employer has possibly committed wage and hour violations, you need to hire an attorney who understands all of the applicable state and federal employment laws. At Bell Law Group, PLLC, our attorneys are experienced in private employment claims. We offer a free strategy session and have offices in New York, Florida, and Washington, D.C. To schedule your consultation, call 855-566-2355 or contact us.
