California law provides some of the strongest protections for workers facing discrimination in the workplace. Under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, it is illegal for employers to treat employees unfairly based on certain protected characteristics. These laws apply to hiring, firing, promotions, job assignments, wages, and other terms of employment.

Protected Characteristics Under California Law

California law prohibits discrimination based on a wide range of personal attributes. Employers cannot make job-related decisions based on the following protected categories:

• Race or ethnicity
• Color
• National origin or ancestry
• Sex, gender, gender identity, or gender expression
• Sexual orientation
• Religion or religious practices
• Age (40 and older)
• Disability (physical or mental)
• Medical condition, including cancer or genetic conditions
• Marital status
• Pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions
• Military or veteran status
• Genetic information
• Reproductive health decision-making

Examples of Workplace Discrimination

Discrimination in the workplace can take many forms. Some common examples include:

• Denying a job to a qualified applicant because of their age
• Firing someone after they disclose a disability
• Refusing to promote an employee due to their race or religion
• Paying employees different wages for the same work based on gender
• Failing to provide reasonable accommodations for a pregnant employee

What to Do If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you’ve been discriminated against at work, it’s important to document the incidents and seek legal advice. You may file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), formerly known as the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). In many cases, you must file a claim with one of these agencies before you can pursue a lawsuit against your employer.

Speak to a California Employment Attorney

Discrimination in the workplace is not just unfair — it’s illegal. An experienced California employment attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and guide you through the legal process. If you’ve experienced unlawful treatment based on a protected characteristic, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.