April 01, 2025
April Fools – It’s No Joke – Lack of Workplace Civility May Lead to Civil Litigation
It was no joke on April 1st when an employer agreed to pay one employee $20,000 to settle a claim of religious harassment. The lawsuit alleged a Muslim, teenage employee was harassed, retaliated against, and forced to quit after a manager forcibly removed her Hijab.
The EEOC explains that the employee reported the incident the same day it occurred. The next day the employee submitted her two weeks’ notice of resignation but was not scheduled to work during that period, allegedly in retaliation for reporting the incident.
As is usually the case, the settlement is not just about the money. The employer must also:
- provide training to line employees working in that geographic area three times a year on harassment and religious discrimination;
- regularly train supervisory personnel regarding Title VII and religious discrimination; and
- report to the EEOC any complaints of religious harassment that occur during the next three years.
Be proactive. Train staff about their rights and responsibilities to be free from and report any form of workplace harassment or bullying. Incivility can often lead to allegations of unlawful harassment or discrimination. Hold everyone accountable for professional and respectful conduct – supervisors and managers, as well as staff.
