Every worker deserves to feel safe, respected, and treated fairly at work. In Colorado, employees are protected by the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) — a state law designed to prevent workplace discrimination and support equal opportunity for all.
This guide explains what CADA is, who it protects, and what steps you can take if your rights are violated.
What Is CADA?
The Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) is a state law that prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public services.
In the workplace, CADA makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees or job applicants based on certain protected characteristics.
What Protections Does CADA Offer Employees?
Under CADA, employers cannot discriminate against you in hiring, promotion, pay, job assignments, training, or termination based on:
- Race
- Color
- National Origin
- Ancestry
- Sex (including pregnancy and childbirth)
- Sexual Orientation (including gender identity and expression)
- Religion
- Disability
- Age (40 or older)
- Marital Status
CADA also protects employees from:
- Harassment related to any protected characteristic
- Retaliation for filing a complaint or assisting someone else
- Denial of reasonable accommodations (e.g., for disability or pregnancy)
Who Must Follow CADA?
All employers in Colorado must comply with CADA, regardless of how many employees they have. This includes small businesses with only one worker. This makes CADA broader than many federal laws, which typically apply only to employers with 15 or more employees.
How to File a Complaint Under CADA
If you believe your rights under CADA have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD).
Steps to File:
- Act promptly — You must file within 300 days of the discriminatory act.
- Gather evidence — Save documents, messages, or witness statements.
- File your complaint
- Online via the CCRD website
- By mail or in person
Once filed, the CCRD may investigate, offer mediation, or take legal action. Many cases are also dual-filed with the EEOC, ensuring protection under both state and federal laws.
What Is Retaliation — and Is It Illegal?
Yes, retaliation is illegal under CADA. If you file a complaint, report harassment, or assist in an investigation, your employer is not allowed to:
- Fire you
- Demote you
- Reduce your hours
- Harass or intimidate you
If they do, you may have grounds for a separate retaliation claim.
What If You’re Forced to Quit?
If you resigned because your workplace became unbearable due to ongoing discrimination or harassment, this may be considered constructive discharge (or constructive dismissal). This means:
- The resignation was not truly voluntary
- The working conditions were so bad that no reasonable person would stay
You may still be entitled to unemployment benefits, compensation, or other legal remedies.
Final Thoughts: Know and Use Your Rights
The Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) is a powerful law that protects workers across the state. It ensures that everyone — regardless of background, identity, or ability — has the right to work in a fair, respectful environment.
If you’re facing discrimination:
- Document what’s happening
- Report the issue to your employer or HR department
- File a complaint with CCRD or EEOC
- Consider speaking to an employment attorney
