Are Employee Language Requirements Lawful?

You Have Rights As A Worker. I Will Help Protect Them.
Denis ZilberbergApril 17, 2015Workplace Discrimination

As many employees in California know, finding a job can be difficult. Going for interviews is often nerve-wracking and when you start work in your new position it can take time to get used to all the requirements of your employment. However, all of this is fine and expected as long as those requirements are reasonable. Unfortunately, some employees find their situation is made even harder due to discriminatory treatment.

It is illegal for an employer to single you out based on your race or national origin. However, it is something that happens far too often. However, one thing many employees do not realize is that this discrimination does not have to take the form of verbal or physical harassment. It can even include policies that intentionally or unintentionally single someone out for their race.

For example, as this article on discrimination explains, a no-beard policy could be perceived to single out racial groups who are more inclined to grow beards due to a skin condition that makes shaving problematic due to the severe skin bumps left by the process. This can be very prevalent in men of African-American descent.

Another issue is language discrimination. It may be reasonable for a company to require employees to speak a particular language if it directly affects their ability to fulfill the requirements of their position. However, if this restriction attempts to prevent employees from using other languages during their breaks, this could fall under the umbrella of discrimination.

Everyone deserves to be treated fairly at work, so if you suspect your rights have been breached, you might benefit from the advice of an attorney. He or she can evaluate your case and may be able to support you if you decide to take legal action against your employer or anyone else responsible for your mistreatment at work.

Tags:

, , ,

Share On:

Have You Been Wrongfully
Terminated?

Contact the Westlake Village Employment Attorney at The Kaufman Law Firm For an Initial Consultation

Your job is more than just a source of income. It is a major part of your lifestyle. If you have been the victim of wrongful termination, wrongful demotion or any kind of discriminatory business practices, it is time to take action and contact a Ventura employment law attorney that can help. Attorney Matthew A. Kaufman and the team at The Kaufman Law Firm bring experience and a vast arsenal of legal resources to help clients recover the money they deserve.

To learn more, contact our Westlake Village or Los Angeles law office today and schedule an initial consultation to discuss your case.

Contact us to protect your workplace rights