Protections for Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

Discrimination against someone because of their sexual orientation or gender identity is illegal under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended. Sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex are all connected, and Title VII expressly prohibits discrimination based on sex.

Dealing with Accent Issues in Employment

If an accent does not “materially interfere” with an employee’s ability to communicate in English, an employer may not base an employment decision on the accent. Language, accent, and national origin are all connected, and Title VII expressly prohibits discrimination based on national origin.

Avoiding Disparate Treatment and Understanding Comparators

Under the McDonnell Douglas burden-shifting framework, an employee has the burden to demonstrate that she was treated differently from other individuals who were similarly situated. The 11th Circuit clarified that this includes all material respects of the treatment in question.

Understanding Language and Accent Issues Under Title VII

Discrimination against someone because of their accent or language issues is illegal under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended. Language, accent, and national origin are all connected, and Title VII expressly prohibits discrimination based on national origin.