Phoenix Religious Discrimination Lawyer
Discrimination that occurs in the course of employment is illegal on both the federal and state levels. Employers, job applicants, and employees should understand what religious discrimination is in the workplace and what may be done about it. The Foster Group’s religious discrimination attorneys in Phoenix are ready to assist both employers and employees. Schedule your confidential consultation now.
What Is Religious Discrimination in Phoenix?
Religious discrimination means that a job applicant or employee is treated unfairly for their sincerely held religious or moral beliefs. It can also include ethical beliefs. It doesn’t only include major religions. It also includes atheism. The key is that the beliefs, morals, or ethics, must be sincerely held and not something that is clung to only at random points. Of course, this does not mean that a person is required to flaunt their beliefs or practices openly.
Additionally, religious discrimination in Phoenix may also occur if an employer requires employees to participate in religious services, prayer, etc. There are some exceptions to this.
Are There Federal Laws to Prevent Religious Discrimination in Phoenix?
Title VII is a federal law that makes it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or employee because of their sincerely held religious, moral, or ethical beliefs. The purpose of this law is to stop businesses that would intentionally discriminate against people.
However, it also guides businesses by explaining what is required from them to ensure that all job applicants and employees are treated equally regardless of what they do or do not believe. Although this concept is known as “religious discrimination,” atheism, or the lack if religious beliefs, is included.
The EEOC’s website has a specific page devoted to what is known as Section 12. Section 12 explains detailed guidance on religious discrimination, covered businesses, and the exceptions to this particular part of Title VII. For example, religious organizations and ministerial exceptions exist.
Does the Arizona Civil Rights Act Protect Against Religious Discrimination?
The Arizona Civil Rights Act does protect individuals against religious discrimination by employers. In fact, it’s very similar to Title VII. Much like Title VII, the Arizona Civil Rights Act requires employers to also provide reasonable accommodations to respect their employees’ religious beliefs in addition to not discriminating against them. Another similarity between the State and federal laws are in the fact that atheists are also protected from discrimination.
Both the State and federal laws make it unlawful to prefer or disadvantage one religion or religious institution over another or over a nonreligious entity as well as to not provide a reasonable accommodation for a religious belief or practice.
How Can the Religious Discrimination Lawyers of The Foster Group Help You?
Whether you’re an employer or an employee in the Phoenix area concerned about a religious discrimination claim at the federal or State level, if you’re in Phoenix or the surrounding area, The Foster Group can help. Our experienced Phoenix religious discrimination attorneys are well-versed in both federal and Arizona-state religious discrimination laws. We have the knowledge and the experience to help you resolve your matter. Schedule your confidential consultation now!