Are employers required to treat employees differently due to their religion or beliefs?

Yes, employers in California are legally required to treat employees respectfully and equally regardless of their religious or belief systems. According to the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, “it is an unlawful employment practice . . . for an employer . . . to discriminate against a person in compensation or in terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because of religious creed.” This means that employers are prohibited from discriminating against an employee due to their religious beliefs. This extends to all aspects of the employment relationship, including job assignments, scheduling, wages, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment. Employers must also reasonably accommodate an employee’s sincerely held religious beliefs or practices, as long as the accommodation does not impose an undue hardship on the employer. This may include making adjustments to the employee’s schedule or job assignments in order to accommodate their religious needs. In addition, employers are prohibited from harassing an employee because of their religion or beliefs. This includes offensive remarks, jokes, or intimidation. All employees have the right to a workplace free from religious discrimination and harassment.

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