SPRING 2025
cording to the Seventh Circuit, all Mr. Thomas had to do was show that he suffered a disadvantage that was not suffered by others of a different color regardless of whether the disadvan- tage was severe or substantial. As the court recognized, delaying training can result in delayed promotions and denying preferred vacation requests can make vacation more uncomfortable if it is not granted at the employee’s preferred time. These sorts of alleged injuries were sufficient, if true, to constitute a violation of Title VII. This case shows that courts are open to a variety of different ac- tions in the workplace which can constitute a violation of Title VII if those actions are taken on the basis of an employee’s protect- ed trait (race, color, sex, national origin, religion, gender identity, and sexual orientation). State and local laws also include addi- tional protected traits beyond these listed which are the ones protected by Title VII. Employers must therefore be careful to always base decisions on neutral criteria which are unrelated to protected traits.
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Storm Larson
Storm is an attorney at Boardman Clark where he counsels and litigates on behalf of employers in all aspects of employment law. Storm also routinely presents in front of HR audiences across the state of Wisconsin.
2025 WI SHRM State Conference October 8 – 10, 2025
Get ready to join your HR peers for a fantastic learning and networking experience. The Wisconsin SHRM Conference is coming to the Kalahari Resort and Conference Center in Wisconsin Dells from October 8 to 10! The theme of this year’s conference is the Next Generation of Work: Innovation, Navigation, Automation, Collaboration. Save the date now and get ready for: • Amazing speakers: Three keynotes
• Valuable education sessions: 60+ breakouts • Fantastic entertainment: Dueling Pianos! • A lively Exhibit Hall: 130+ exhibiitors
You’ll also enjoy the opportunity to connect with peers and grow your HR network. The conference will be at the beautiful Wisconsin Dells Kalahari Resort & Conference Center and will also be online. Watch for conference and hotel registration information to arrive soon! Check the conference Home Page and follow WI SHRM on social media for the latest updates.
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