Key Terms
APPLIES TO
Employers with 15 OR MORE employees.
Discrimination can take the form of
Refusal to hire, failure to compensate fully, denial of advancement, demotion, layoff, termination, or any other term or
Race discrimination
Treating someone unfavorably because of their race OR characteristics associated with race (hair texture, skin color, fa
Color discrimination
Treating someone unfavorably based on skin color or complexion specifically.
Reasonable accommodation required
Employers must accommodate religious beliefs or practices unless doing so creates undue hardship on business operations.
Dress and appearance
If a religious practice requires specific dress (example: a headscarf), the employer must permit it unless it creates un
Legitimate BFOQ example
Hiring female security officers to monitor women's changing areas.
Stereotyping is illegal
Assuming a woman with children is less committed, less qualified, or would prefer fewer hours is discrimination. These p
Example
A hiring manager refuses to consider women because he does not want to deal with maternity leave.
Definition
Any change or adjustment to the work environment that allows the disabled worker to perform essential job functions, or
BFOQ applies to
Religion, gender, national origin. BFOQ does NOT apply to: race or color.
Functions
Publishes compliance guidelines; investigates worker complaints; files charges against employers; can award remedies.
EXCEPTION
Equal Pay Act claims do NOT require EEOC filing first. Go straight to federal court.
After notice
Employee has 180 days to file in federal court.
REVERSE DISCRIMINATION
White Americans can also be victims of race discrimination. Title VII protects ALL individuals from race discrimination.