The word “discrimination” is often overused and stretched beyond its legal meaning. “Discrimination” is often used as a synonym for anything an employee may personally believe is unfair. In employment law, however, the word “discrimination” is more narrowly defined and limited in context.
This section thoroughly explores employment discrimination as defined by both federal and state anti-discrimination laws, including:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII)
- The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
- The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)
- State and federal equal pay laws
This section is designed to help you recognize and avoid unlawful discrimination in your workplace. Also, you’ll read about how these laws are enforced and who is held liable for acts of discrimination. In addition to commonly recognized employment discrimination laws, this section discusses other, less widely known state and federal protections against discrimination and retaliation.