For discrimination complaints related to housing, employment, or business establishments, you may contact the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) at 800-884-1684 (voice), 800-700-2320 (TTY). You may also visit the DFEH page for additional information.
After the complaint is filed, it will be reviewed and preliminary information will be gathered to determine whether the Labor Commissioner has jurisdiction over the issues raised. If it is determined that the Labor Commissioner has jurisdiction, the complaint will be accepted for investigation.
Below, we'll go over some simple do's and don'ts when it comes to reporting discrimination or unlawful harassment to HR. DO report discrimination in writing. DO explicitly use the words “discrimination” or “unlawful harassment.” ... DO be concise in your written complaint. DO keep record of your communications with HR.
Report discrimination to a local Fair Employment Practices Agency (FEPA). If the discrimination breaks both a state and federal law, the FEPA will also send your complaint to the EEOC. Use the EEOC's directory of field offices to find the FEPA near you.
Compare your work, conduct and treatment to that of those outside of your protected class as much as possible. Provide proof that others of similar qualifications have been given better opportunities, projects that are more favorable and superior treatment.
The answer depends on your claims and willingness to pursue litigation. If your claims are strong and you are invested in the litigation process, it can be very “worth it” to feel you are standing up for accountability, getting compensation for your injuries, and incentivizing the company to change its ways.
Include the following in your complaint letter: Your name, address and telephone number. The name, address, and telephone number of your attorney or authorized representative, if you are represented. The basis of your complaint. The date(s) that the incident(s) you are reporting as discrimination occurred.
The following would be considered illegal discrimination if there is evidence that the decision was made based on a protected characteristic: Sexual Harassment. Refusal to Provide Services. Unfair Lending Practices. Misrepresenting the Availability of Housing. Refusal to Allow “Reasonable Modifications” Refusing Rental.
Evidence in a discrimination case in California typically includes: emails, text messages, recordings, disciplinary forms, termination documents, or a copy of your employment contract if one exists. If you're like most Californians, you spend an inordinate amount of time at work.