Under federal law, all employers in the United States are prohibited from discriminating against employees on the basis of certain protected characteristics, such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information. In addition to these federal protections, Pennsylvania also has laws that prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of several additional protected characteristics, including ancestry, familial status, and sexual orientation.
If you believe you have been illegally discriminated against in the workplace, there are several options available to you. First, you may file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), depending on the circumstances of your case. These agencies are responsible for investigating claims of discrimination and may take action to enforce anti-discrimination laws.
You may also file a lawsuit in state or federal court against your employer for violating anti-discrimination laws. In order to successfully pursue a discrimination claim, you will need to demonstrate that you belong to a protected class, that you suffered an adverse employment action (such as termination or demotion), and that the adverse action was motivated by discriminatory animus.
It is important to note that there may be certain limitations and exceptions to these legal protections. For example, some employers may argue that their actions were based on legitimate business reasons rather than discrimination. In addition, certain types of employers, such as religious organizations or small businesses with fewer than 15 employees, may be exempt from certain anti-discrimination laws.
If you believe you have been illegally discriminated against in the workplace, it is advisable to consult with an experienced employment discrimination lawyer who can provide you with guidance and advice regarding your legal options.
By