Tag: discrimination

Religious Accommodation: SCOTUS Approaching Decision on Title VII ‘Undue Hardship’ Standard

On April 18, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case involving a former U.S. Postal Service (USPS) worker who was denied a religious accommodation to observe his sabbath. The broad implications of a decision that favors the former worker could change the analysis for employers when assessing employee requests for religious […]

Encouraging Diversity While Avoiding Divisiveness

Employer focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), however well intentioned, needs to be handled properly, or it may have a detrimental effect on the workforce. While many employers promote DEI as “the right thing to do,” it’s essential for DEI success and acceptance that the right thing isn’t done the wrong way. Factors to […]

The Changing Landscape of Employment Discrimination Prevention in 2023

Change is in the air: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) are adjusting their standard policies and operations to reflect the realities of the current labor market. For example, the EEOC and OFCCP must ensure that emerging artificial intelligence (AI) technologies don’t lead to employment discrimination […]

True or False: Opposing Discrimination Gives Green Light for Employee Misconduct

Here’s an urban myth: An employee who opposes potential employer discrimination must be treated with kid gloves after complaining. The U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals (whose rulings cover Texas employers) recently stated that this proposition is, indeed, a myth. Oppose, Oppose, Oppose Emilio Lira worked as a financial advisor for Edward Jones. Between November […]

Racial Disparities in Remote Work Preferences

Businesses around the world have been struggling to strike the right balance when it comes to remote work. Now that government-imposed COVID-19 pandemic restrictions are a thing of the past, there’s no longer a requirement that businesses allow workers to work from home, and companies are trying to determine both whether remote work is a […]

Revealed: More Than 25% of Over 40’s Believe They Didn’t Get Hired Because of Their Age

64% of workers over 40 believe age-based discrimination in the workplace is common, while just 50% say the same about racism. 34% of U.S. workers in their 40s feel their age “holds them back” at work— more than sexism, disabilities, or sexual orientation. 60% of workers who lack confidence in their ability to get a […]

States and Cities Limit AI Use in Employment Decision-Making

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in employment decision-making is on the rise, with Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Chair Charlotte Burrows stating that more than 80% of employers use this technology.

New Year’s Resolutions Every Employer Should Make

As the new calendar year begins, many organizations are wisely asking, “What can we do to protect our business assets from an employment law perspective?” This is a great question, and the beginning of the year is the perfect time to take stock of existing policies and their effectiveness, review recent changes to applicable laws, […]

Pause and Think Before You Terminate Employees

While the unemployment rate continues to remain low, given the current potential for a recession or sustained economic downturn, more employers are firing employees. Some employers are also seeing more discrimination claims following terminations.