Does harassment qualify as wrongful termination?

Yes, harassment can qualify as wrongful termination in Washington. According to the Washington State Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60), harassment is a form of discrimination that can lead to wrongful termination. If an employer fires an employee on the basis of gender, race, religion, disability, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity, that termination could be considered wrongful. In order for a termination to be deemed wrongful, there must be proof of illegal discrimination. Employers are not allowed to use harassment as a tool to intimidate or control employees. If an employee is being harassed, they should report it to their supervisor or personnel department. If the harassment is severe or pervasive, and leads to the employee being terminated or demoted, that could be considered wrongful termination. In Washington, the employee must prove that there was either “direct or circumstantial proof” of harassment or discrimination. For example, if an employer was consistently making derogatory remarks about the employee’s race or gender, that could be considered proof of harassment leading to wrongful termination. If an employee believes they were wrongfully terminated, they can contact the Washington State Human Rights Commission or a local employment lawyer to discuss their rights. Getting legal advice at the earliest possible stage is important as time limits may apply.

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Does harassment qualify as wrongful termination?

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