Workplace discrimination can take many forms, and our firm has extensive experience handling various cases. One of the most common forms of discrimination is based on race and ethnicity. This occurs when employees are mistreated due to their racial or ethnic background, whether through hiring biases, unequal opportunities for promotions and training, or the creation of a hostile work environment filled with derogatory comments or racial slurs. In some instances, employees who speak up about such discrimination may also face retaliation from their employers, further complicating their situation.

Legal Protections for Atlanta Employees

Atlanta employees are protected from workplace discrimination under a variety of federal, state, and local laws. At the federal level, key statutes such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) form the foundation for anti-discrimination protections. These laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and age.

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It applies to employers with 15 or more employees and ensures fair treatment in all aspects of employment, including hiring and promotions.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects qualified individuals with disabilities from discrimination in public life, including employment, requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
• The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects individuals 40 years of age or older from age-based discrimination in employment. It covers hiring, promotions, and compensation for employers with 20 or more employees.

Atlanta Local Laws on Employment Discrimination

Atlanta also has local ordinances that provide additional protections for employees:

Atlanta Anti-Discrimination Ordinance (Ordinance 22-O-1748)

This ordinance prohibits discrimination based on several protected characteristics, including race, color, creed, religion, sex, domestic relationship status, parental status, familial status, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, criminal history status, age, disability, and the use of a service animal.

• Criminal History: The ordinance explicitly includes criminal history as a protected characteristic. Employers are prohibited from discriminating against job applicants or employees based on their criminal history unless certain conditions are met. These conditions include the nature and gravity of the offense, the time elapsed since the offense, and its relevance to the job.
• Employment Practices: The ordinance applies to private employers with ten or more employees and includes prohibitions on discriminatory practices in hiring, firing, compensation, and other employment terms.

Georgia State Laws on Employment Discrimination

Georgia also provides additional protections for employees through state-level laws:

• Georgia Fair Employment Practices Act: This act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, disability, color, sex, religion, age (40 and older), or national origin. It applies primarily to state government employees.
• Georgia Age Discrimination Act: Prohibits discrimination against individuals aged 40 to 70 in employment settings.
• The Equal Employment for Persons with Disabilities Code prohibits employment discrimination against individuals with disabilities unless the disability prevents them from performing essential job functions.
• Equal Pay Act: Requires equal pay for equal work regardless of sex.

Filing a Discrimination Claim in Atlanta

If you believe you have been discriminated against in the workplace, it is crucial to take action promptly. Victims of employment discrimination can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or pursue legal action through state mechanisms such as the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity. At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., we guide our clients through every step, from filing initial complaints to pursuing litigation when necessary. Our experienced attorneys are committed to helping you seek justice and protecting your rights as an employee.