Religious discrimination occurs when an employer treats an applicant or employee unfavorably because of their religious beliefs. This type of discrimination profoundly affects individuals, impacting everything from daily comfort to long-term career growth. If you have experienced harassment, been denied reasonable accommodations or suspect you face wrongful termination because of your faith, you may have a legal claim. At Weisberg Cummings, P.C., our employment lawyers can help you explore your legal options and hold employers accountable.
Examples of Religious Discrimination in the Workplace
Religious discrimination can take many forms, from overt hostility to subtle policy changes that target specific practices. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the law protects people who belong to traditional, organized religions and those who have sincerely held religious or moral beliefs.
Common examples of religious discrimination include:
- Subjecting an employee to employer retaliation after they report religious harassment.
- Refusing to hire, promote or retain an employee based on their religious beliefs or lack thereof.
- Subjecting an employee to offensive remarks about their religion, creating a hostile work environment.
- Denying reasonable accommodations, such as schedule changes for religious holidays or Sabbath observance and exceptions to dress codes.
- Enforcing grooming policies that target religious expression.
For example, amendments to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) explicitly protect hairstyles and head coverings historically associated with religious beliefs.
Which Laws Prohibit Religious Discrimination?
Employees in Pennsylvania are protected from religious discrimination at both the state and federal levels.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
This federal law prohibits employment discrimination based on religion and mandates that employers reasonably accommodate an employee’s religious beliefs. Following the 2023 Supreme Court ruling in Groff v. DeJoy, the standard for denying an accommodation is stricter. Employers can no longer claim a “trivial” or “de minimis” burden. Now, they must prove the accommodation would result in “substantial increased costs” to their business operations.
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA)
This Pennsylvania state law provides protections against workplace discrimination, including on the basis of religious creed. Enforced by the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC), the PHRA applies to employers with four or more employees, offering broader coverage than Title VII, which requires 15 or more employees.
Why Work With the Religious Discrimination Lawyers at Weisberg Cummings, P.C.?
Facing discrimination at work can be extremely offensive and hurtful, but our attorneys are here to help. We’re dedicated to understanding the full scope of your situation. We treat every client with dignity and respect, instead of treating you like a case file. We know that legal matters can be stressful, which is why we prioritize returning calls quickly so you never feel ignored.
We have successfully proven merit in cases others dismissed, ensuring our clients feel believed and supported. We bring a high level of competence and meticulous preparation to every claim, taking on challenging cases with confidence. Beyond seeking compensation, our goal is to help you find a resolution and peace of mind to move forward.
Contact Weisberg Cummings for Religious Discrimination in Pennsylvania
If you believe your employer has violated your rights, we can help evaluate your situation. Contact us online for a free consultation with religious discrimination lawyers serving all of Pennsylvania, or call us toll free at (855) 716-2367.
