## What types of employment discrimination are illegal?
It is unlawful to discriminate based on **race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), or national origin**.

This covers hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoffs, training, and any other term of employment. Age (40 and over) and disability are protected by related laws.

## What counts as workplace harassment?
Unwelcome conduct based on a protected characteristic, when enduring it becomes a condition of staying employed, or when it is **severe or pervasive** enough to create a hostile work environment.

Isolated slights and petty annoyances usually do not meet the bar. A pattern does.

## Can my employer punish me for reporting discrimination?
No. **Retaliation is illegal**: firing, demoting, or otherwise punishing someone for filing a charge, reporting discrimination, or taking part in an investigation.

Retaliation is a separate violation, even if the original complaint fails.

## Must my employer accommodate a disability or my religion?
Yes, with **reasonable accommodation**, unless it would cause undue hardship to the business.

## How do I file a discrimination charge?
File with the **EEOC**, normally **within 180 days** of the discriminatory act. That window extends to 300 days where a state or local agency enforces a similar law.