It can be tricky to tell if there is a violation of your religious rights at your workplace. This is especially true when you are unsure if what you are experiencing is an ordinary work restriction, or an act of religious discrimination.
Religious discrimination comes in numerous forms, and if you can prove it, you may have a claim. It can be anything from failing to get a promotion, your employer denying you certain accommodations, or experiencing harassment at work because of your religious beliefs or practices.
What is religious discrimination?
Religious discrimination at work happens when employees receive unfair treatment because of their religion and religious beliefs or practices. It also occurs when there is a denial on an employee’s request for accommodation, or a change in workplace rule or policy, so they can practice their religion. Religious discrimination also applies when employees receive a different treatment because of their lack of religious belief or practice.
The Religious Freedom Act (RFRA) prohibits employers from discriminating against their employees based on their religion. This does not only protect traditional, organized religions or other faiths, it also covers individuals with religious, ethical or moral beliefs.
Is religious accommodation always guaranteed in the workplace?
Religious accommodation in the workplace may be one of the most confusing issues surrounding religious discrimination. While you technically have the right to request reasonable accommodations to practice your religion even while you are at work, what may be reasonable to you may not be reasonable to others.
Your employer can restrict accommodations if they are too burdensome to the business or your co-workers.
Seeking advice from an experienced attorney may be beneficial if you are unsure if you are experiencing religious discrimination. They may also help you understand your rights as an employee.
