How to Address Religious Discrimination in the New Jersey Workplace

Freedom of religion is a fundamental right in the United States, and that freedom doesn’t stop at the workplace door. In New Jersey, employees are protected under both state and federal laws from being discriminated against based on their religious beliefs or practices. Unfortunately, religious discrimination still occurs in many forms—ranging from unfair treatment to outright harassment.

NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC is dedicated to protecting employees of all faiths, or no faith, from discrimination at work. If you’ve been denied accommodations or targeted because of your religious beliefs, you’re not alone—and legal support is available.

What Constitutes Religious Discrimination?

Religious discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfavorably because of their religious beliefs or practices. This can include:

• Denying time off for religious observances or holidays
• Refusing to allow religious clothing or grooming (such as headscarves, yarmulkes, or beards)
• Making offensive jokes or comments about religion
• Forcing employees to participate in religious practices against their will
• Failing to prevent or address harassment from coworkers

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), employers are legally required to provide reasonable accommodations for religious practices—unless doing so would pose an undue hardship on the business.

Reasonable Accommodations Explained

Reasonable accommodations are adjustments or modifications that allow an employee to observe their faith while still performing their job duties. Common examples include:

• Flexible scheduling for religious services or prayer times
• Dress code modifications to allow religious attire
• Adjustments to job responsibilities that conflict with religious beliefs

If a requested accommodation doesn’t significantly disrupt business operations or create excessive costs, the employer is obligated to grant it.

Steps to Take if You’re Facing Religious Discrimination

If you believe you’re being treated unfairly because of your religion, here’s what you should do:

1. Document everything: Keep a written record of incidents, including dates, times, and people involved.
2. Request accommodations in writing: Be clear and respectful in your request for any religious modifications to your work environment or schedule.
3. Follow internal procedures: Report the issue to HR or your supervisor as outlined in your employee handbook.
4. Consult an employment attorney: If your complaint is ignored or retaliated against, legal action may be necessary.

Standing Up for Workplace Respect and Inclusion

Everyone deserves to work in an environment free of hostility and bias. When employers ignore their legal obligation to respect religious rights, employees can suffer professionally and personally. Our team at NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC is committed to fighting religious discrimination with skill, compassion, and persistence.

If you’re dealing with this type of workplace issue in New Jersey, you don’t have to handle it alone. We are ready to help you secure your rights and achieve a fair resolution.

About NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC

NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC represents individuals across the state of New Jersey in employment law matters including discrimination, harassment, wage violations, whistleblower retaliation, and more. We are passionate about holding employers accountable and helping employees regain control of their careers and lives.

Contact Information:
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
(973) 358-7027