Rich Meneghello is a lawyer based in Portland, Oregon, and writes about what defines religious discrimination in the workplace:

December is the month when most religious discrimination claims originate, so employers should prepare for the holiday season carefully.

Fast fact: Religion-related claims are the fastest-growing charges filed with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission; from 1,388 in 1992 to 3,386 in 2009. Although there is no single explanation for the rise in filings, common theories include enhanced awareness of employee rights, the continued growth of diversity in the workplace and increased tension after the Sept. 11 attacks.

It’s an interesting paradox that during the time of the year that many faiths celebrate peace on earth and goodwill towards all, people also have an increased feeling of being discriminated against.