What Are Common Forms of Employment Discrimination?

Employment discrimination can be a challenging experience for workers. It occurs when employees or job applicants face unfair treatment based on specific protected characteristics. Whether it results in hindered career growth, harassment or other employment actions, recognizing the signs of discrimination early empowers individuals to take the appropriate steps to assert their rights. At DeGolia Law P.C., we understand the complexities of employment discrimination and are here to advocate for fair treatment in the workplace.

Prohibited Employment Practices in Colorado

Colorado law, under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA), protects employees from various forms of discriminatory practices committed by their employers. These laws ensure that all employees have equitable opportunities and are judged based on their qualifications, not biases or prejudices.

Some prevalent prohibitive practices by employers include:

• Refusing to Hire. Employers cannot deny employment opportunities to qualified candidates based on their protected class. For instance, rejecting a candidate due to their race, gender or age violates anti-discrimination laws.
• Unfair Termination or Demotion. Discrimination can take the form of wrongful termination or demotion based on a characteristic unrelated to job performance. These actions violate the law, creating a workplace climate that discourages fairness and diversity.
• Denying Promotions and Equal Opportunities. Every employee deserves an equal chance to advance their career. An employer unfairly passing over eligible individuals for promotions, benefits or professional development due to their background or identity perpetuates discrimination.
• Harassment in the Workplace. Workplace harassment can manifest through offensive comments, bullying or policy practices targeting employees because of their protected status. An employer who enables or ignores such actions is complicit in fostering a discriminatory work environment.
• Unequal Compensation. Employers must compensate employees fairly for performing equal work. Any disparities in wages, benefits or other financial privileges based on a person’s protected class are discriminatory and actionable under Colorado law.
• Failing to Provide Reasonable Accommodations. Employers are responsible for ensuring employees with disabilities or pregnancy-related conditions have the adjustments they need to perform their duties. This could include flexible work schedules, modified equipment or appropriate medical leave.

What Constitutes Protected Classes?

To understand employment discrimination, it is critical to know which characteristics are legally protected. Colorado law identifies the following protected classes:

• Race, including traits like hair texture and styles associated with racial identity  
• Disability, covering physical or mental impairments limiting major life activities  
• Age (40 and above)  
• Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression  
• Religion or creed  
• National origin and ancestry  
• Marital status and marriage to a co-worker (specific situations)  
• Pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions  
• Wage transparency (rights to share and compare wage information)

Employees taking legitimate actions, such as reporting discrimination, are also safeguarded against retaliation.

DeGolia Law P.C. Can Help

Employment discrimination damages careers, financial stability and emotional well-being. At DeGolia Law P.C., our mission is to provide informed guidance to individuals facing these injustices. If you believe you have experienced employment discrimination, contact us today for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you receive the fair treatment you deserve.