How do I prove discrimination?

You can show direct evidence (discriminatory statements, policies) or circumstantial evidence (differential treatment, statistical patterns, pretext for stated reasons) [42 U.S.C. 2000e-2].

What happens after I file?

The agency investigates, attempts mediation or conciliation, and may issue findings. If unresolved, you receive a right-to-sue letter allowing you to file a lawsuit.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Hawaii Workplace Discrimination — Filing a Complaint

Q: What counts as workplace discrimination?

Discrimination occurs when an employer treats you less favorably because of a protected characteristic. Under the Hawaii Employment Practices Law, protected classes include: race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, religion, color, ancestry, disability, marital status, arrest/court record, domestic or sexual violence victim status — applies to employers with 1+ employees; one of the broadest sets of protected classes in the us [§ 378:2].

Q: How long do I have to file a complaint?

180 days to file with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission [§ 368:11].

Q: Can I file with both the state agency and EEOC?

Yes. Hawaii Civil Rights Commission is a deferral agency that cross-files with EEOC; Hawaii's 180-day state filing deadline is shorter than the federal 300-day deferral deadline. Filing with one agency can often satisfy the requirements of the other through cross-filing agreements.

Protected classes, filing deadlines, and how to pursue a discrimination claim under Hawaii and federal law.

The Hawaii Employment Practices Law prohibits employment discrimination in Hawaii §378:2.

Protected Classes

Under Hawaii law, employers cannot discriminate based on: race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, religion, color, ancestry, disability, marital status, arrest/court record, domestic or sexual violence victim status — applies to employers with 1+ employees; one of the broadest sets of protected classes in the us.

Federal laws (Title VII, ADA, ADEA) provide additional protections for employees of employers with 15+ employees (20+ for age discrimination).

Types of Discrimination

Disparate treatment — intentional discrimination based on a protected characteristic

Disparate impact — neutral policies that disproportionately affect a protected group

Failure to accommodate — refusing reasonable accommodations for disability or religion

Harassment — creating a Hostile work environment based on a protected characteristic

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

You have 180 days to file with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission §368:11. Hawaii Civil Rights Commission is a deferral agency that cross-files with EEOC; Hawaii's 180-day state filing deadline is shorter than the federal 300-day deferral deadline.

	Details
State Agency	Hawaii Civil Rights Commission (HCRC)
Federal Agency	EEOC
State Deadline	180 days to file with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission §368:11
Federal Deadline	180 days (300 with deferral) [42 U.S.C. § 2000e-5]

⚠Filing deadlines are strictly enforced. Missing the deadline typically bars your claim entirely, regardless of its merits.

✓File with both the state agency and EEOC to preserve all options. A single filing can often be cross-filed with both agencies.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Employment Law)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Employment records

(pay stubs, contracts, offer letters)

Communication evidence

(emails, texts, performance reviews)

Witness information

(coworkers who can corroborate)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and employment situation.

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