Race was the first protected class in American employment law. Title VII and the Minnesota Human Rights Act both prohibit discrimination based on race and color, and courts have held that "race" includes ethnicity. Many of the most important concepts in all of discrimination law — including the rules for proving cases and the idea that harassment is a form of discrimination — grew out of race discrimination cases. Segregated workplace facilities, racially hostile work environments, and race-based decisions about hiring, pay, and promotion are all illegal.
Minnesota has also expanded these protections. Under the CROWN Act, passed in 2022, the Minnesota Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on hairstyles associated with race — such as braids, locs, and twists.
These summaries explain federal and Minnesota employment laws in everyday language, drawing on current legal reference materials. They are general information only, not legal advice. Laws change, deadlines are strict, and small facts can make a big difference. If you believe your rights have been violated, begin a free case evaluation to discuss the facts of your situation.