Protecting your rights as a remote worker in California

As remote work becomes more common, understanding your rights against workplace harassment and discrimination is crucial. Even when working from home, employees have a right to a safe and equitable work environment. Employers are responsible for ensuring this, regardless of where employees work.

Understanding your rights

The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act protect employees from harassment and discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, and other factors. 

These laws apply equally to remote workers. It is important to recognize that harassment can happen in many ways. Common avenues include through emails, virtual meetings, or any form of digital communication.

Identifying harassment and discrimination

Workplace harassment is any unwelcome behavior based on protected traits that makes the work environment intimidating or hostile. Discrimination involves unfair treatment because of a protected characteristic. Both can manifest as exclusion from projects, derogatory comments, or unfair performance evaluations.

Reporting issues

If you face harassment or discrimination, report it to your employer’s HR department. You may also report it to a designated representative. Document incidents, including dates, times, and details of the interactions. Your employer should have a procedure for handling complaints and investigating them. 

Employer responsibilities

Employers must take proactive steps to prevent harassment and discrimination. This includes:

• Implementing policies
• Providing regular training to employees
• Ensuring that these measures extend to remote workers

Employers must also ensure that they take all complaints seriously and investigate them properly.

Steps to protect yourself

Educate yourself about your rights and your employer’s policies on harassment and discrimination. Maintain records of any interactions that make you uncomfortable, and communicate your concerns clearly and professionally. 

Empowerment through knowledge

Understanding your rights as a remote worker can help you navigate workplace challenges with confidence. Being informed is your first step towards empowerment and protection in the evolving world of remote work.