Working for a big company in Santa Barbara doesn’t mean you have to accept unfair treatment because of a disability. You have rights, and remember that the law supports you. California law provides strong workplace protections, even when your employer is powerful or well known. Knowing those rights is the first step to standing up for yourself.
What is disability discrimination under California law?
Under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), your employer cannot legally discriminate against you because of a physical or mental disability. This includes refusing reasonable accommodations like flexible scheduling, modified duties or assistive devices. Additionally, the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) offers similar safeguards nationwide. Employers must make necessary accommodations and avoid discriminatory practices. If your employer demotes, ignores or harasses you after you disclose a disability, it’s potentially violating both state and federal laws.
Even when you know your rights, fair treatment is not always guaranteed.
Why does it still happen in major companies?
Large employers often fail to follow the law. Bureaucratic red tape, lack of training and internal politics often allow discrimination to continue in the workplace. In Santa Barbara, big institutions like hospitals, universities or corporations sometimes prioritize their interests over your legal rights. You might feel you have to stay silent, but don’t. You have a right to speak out.
Discrimination isn’t always obvious at first. Spotting the red flags early can protect you before the situation worsens.
Warning signs of discrimination on the job
It can be difficult to recognize when disability discrimination is happening at work. Knowing the warning signs helps you spot the problems early and take action before they escalate.
- Denial of reasonable accommodations: Your employer refuses or ignores a request for a necessary adjustment
- Sudden job changes: Your duties or responsibilities shift without a clear explanation after disclosing your disability
- Exclusion from meeting or communications: You are left out of important work-related discussions or training sessions
- Demotion or layoffs: You face demotion, pay cuts or termination soon after sharing your disability status
- Hostile behavior: Supervisors or coworkers treat you with hostility or dismissiveness
- Negative performance reviews: You receive unfair or unexplained poor evaluations after disclosing your condition
- HR delays or inaction: Human resources fails to respond promptly or adequately to your complaints or requests
If you notice one or more of these signs, start documenting your experiences and consider seeking legal advice to protect your rights.
Steps to take if you’ve been mistreated
Facing discrimination is never a good thing, but the following steps can help you assert your rights. Write down your accommodation request, report problems to HR and keep a record of how they respond. If the problem persists, consider filing a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). Another option is to consult with a Santa Barbara employment attorney experienced in disability discrimination, as they can provide valuable guidance in your case.
Holding employers accountable for disability discrimination
Disability shouldn’t limit your opportunities at work. If your employer violates your rights, you can use the law to hold them accountable. Taking action not only protects your livelihood, it also sends a message that discrimination has consequences. Learn your rights, use every resource you have and stand up to unfair treatment.