discrimination

By Rebecca Kurz
University of Denver MSW fellow, 2009-2010

Background

Workers in Colorado can use state and federal laws in seeking remedies for discrimination, but there are differences and gaps in the law that can make it diffucult or impossibe for some workers to seek justice.

March 1, 2010

The Honorable Clair Levy
Chair, House Judiciary Committee
State Capitol
Denver, Colorado 80203

Dear Representative Levy:

I am writing to express the support of the Bell Policy Center for H.B. 10-1269, "Concerning the creation of remedies available in employment discrimination cases." This legislation will expand remedies available under Colorado's anti-discrimination laws and protect more Coloradans from discrimination and harassment in the workplace.

(Emailed to supporters, submitted as op-ed)

By Frank Waterous

Proponents of Amendment 46 maintain that by prohibiting governments from showing preferential treatment, they are righting a wrong because such treatment is "discriminatory, divisive and ineffective."

Their argument is that if everyone is treated equally, then everyone is equal. That's a noble thought and has a feel-good quality to it.

Senate Bill 122 represents a net opportunity gain for Colorado by protecting employees who share salary information with their colleagues from being retaliated or discriminated against. Allowing employees to discuss wage information is one way that workers can learn whether they are being treated equitably and to take action if they are not. Knowing that pay inequities exist is the first step to taking action to correct them.