Addressing Religious Discrimination in New Jersey Workplaces

In an increasingly diverse society, respect for religious beliefs in the workplace is not only a moral responsibility—it’s the law. Unfortunately, many New Jersey employees still experience subtle or overt religious discrimination on the job. Whether it's denied accommodations, insensitive remarks, or outright harassment, these actions are unlawful under both state and federal employment law.

At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we represent workers who have faced mistreatment due to their faith. If you've been discriminated against because of your religion—or because you don’t adhere to one—you have rights, and we’re here to help you defend them.

What Constitutes Religious Discrimination?

Religious discrimination occurs when an employer treats an applicant or employee unfavorably because of their religious beliefs or practices. This includes organized religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, as well as sincerely held personal beliefs and ethical principles.

Examples of religious discrimination include:

Denying requests for time off due to religious observance
Prohibiting religious clothing or symbols (e.g., hijabs, yarmulkes, crosses)
Mocking or criticizing religious practices in the workplace
Refusing to make reasonable accommodations for prayer breaks or dietary needs
Retaliation for filing a complaint about religious discrimination

Legal Protections Under New Jersey Law

New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination (LAD) offers comprehensive protection against religious discrimination, going beyond federal standards. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for employees' religious practices unless doing so would cause an undue hardship to the business.

Unlike federal laws that may exempt small businesses, the LAD applies to nearly all employers in the state—regardless of size. If you believe your employer has failed to respect your religious rights, you may be entitled to legal recourse, including compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages.

Steps to Take if You’re Facing Discrimination

Document every incident with dates, names, and what was said or done
Submit a written request for religious accommodation to your supervisor or HR
Retain copies of communications related to your request
Consult an employment attorney if your request is denied or if retaliation occurs

You have a right to work in an environment that respects your faith. Discrimination is not just wrong—it’s illegal.

How We Can Help

NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC has successfully represented workers across New Jersey in religious discrimination cases. We provide compassionate, strategic legal guidance and aggressive advocacy where necessary. If your employer has crossed the line, we’re ready to stand by you and seek justice on your behalf.

If your situation falls outside our practice area, we’ll make sure you’re connected to the right professionals who can help. We care about your outcome—not just your case.

Contact Information

NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland
NJ
07068
(973) 358-7027
https://njplaintiff.com/how-to-address-religious-discrimination-at-work/