The workplace should be a safe and inclusive environment, but what happens when your religious beliefs intersect with your job? Employers have a legal responsibility to accommodate employees' religious practices, but can they demand proof of your religion? This...
EMPLOYMENT LAW (EMPLOYEE) – Workplace Discrimination
Common stereotypes about older workers
Age should not be a barrier to fair treatment at work. However, many older employees face unfair assumptions that affect their careers. These stereotypes can lead to missed opportunities, job loss and even workplace discrimination. Below are some common misconceptions...
Harassed at work? Here is why you shouldn’t resign
If you’re experiencing workplace harassment or discrimination, the stress can feel unbearable. You might think quitting is the best way to escape the situation, but doing so could hurt your ability to hold your employer accountable and seek justice. Here is why...
What are reasonable accommodations at work?
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), most employers are legally obligated to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. These adjustments help workers perform their jobs. The only valid reason for a non-exempt employer to refuse a...
Did an action at work create a hostile work environment for you?
It's unlawful to be harassed in your workplace based on your identity attributes, such as race, skin color, age, gender identity, sexual orientation and national origin. If you are treated unfavorably based on these characteristics and the action creates a hostile...
New employee protections for family responsibilities in 2025
The start of a new year typically features new state employment laws. Fortunately, here in Illinois, those new laws generally expand employee rights. Several of the new employment-related laws that took effect on January 1 involve amendments to the Illinois Human...
Examples of pregnancy discrimination at work
Pregnancy is a protected characteristic. This means that pregnant employees cannot be discriminated against. Pregnancy discrimination can take numerous forms, but it essentially amounts to adverse treatment based on the pregnancy. Employees need to know what pregnancy...
Do you feel an employer doesn’t want you to apply?
Have you ever come across a job posting and got the feeling that there is no point in applying because the company is clearly not looking for someone like you? In some cases that is fine. There is no point in you applying if you do not have the qualifications or...
Is a dress code discriminatory?
An employer may decide that they want to institute a dress code at the company. They think it will make the business seem more professional. They also think it will help customers in the store because they will immediately know who to talk to if they need help. ...
Illinois is the latest to regulate AI use by employers
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly integrated into the workplace – and concerns about its use in employment decisions have been growing. While Colorado was the first state to enact legislation that addresses the use of algorithmic discrimination due...