Date: December 5, 2024
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Online
Registration: https://njoag.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_X4la9DEqQ5yWGrala70XIw#/registration

Despite significant legal advancements, understanding and implementing workplace accommodations can still be a daunting task for both employees and employers. That’s why the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) is hosting a free vital program titled "Empowering Workplaces: Legal Protections and Best Practices for Pregnant & Breast/Chestfeeding Employees."

This program promises to be an amazing resource for anyone seeking to understand and create equitable workplaces where all employees feel supported, particularly those navigating pregnancy and lactation.

Topics Covered

During this engaging 90-minute session, participants will:

• Learn about legal protections for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals under state and federal laws, including:
  • Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)
  • New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) protections for people who are pregnant or pumping, and expecations for their employer.
  • Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) protections for breast/chestfeeding people, and legal consequences for employers who fail to provide adequate accommodation.
• Explore barriers that pregnant and breastfeeding workers face.
  • Learn how community organizations can support pregnant and breast/chestfeeding people.
  • The role advocacy plays in employer and employee education about their rights.
  • What gaps in current state or federal protections advocacy groups can focus on addressing.
• Understand how meaningful accommodations can improve health outcomes and workplace retention.
• Discover practical resources and community organizations designed to assist employees and employers in fostering supportive workplace environments.

Whether you are an HR professional, employer, employee who is currently pregnant or breastfeeding, or planning on becoming pregnant or breastfeeding, advocate, or a community leader, this program will deepen your understanding of your rights, responsibilities, and actionable ways to enhance workplace inclusivity.

Spotlight on The Panelists

The event will feature distinguished experts who bring a wealth of experience in policy, advocacy, and lactation support:

• Ellen Maughan, JD, IBCLC, New Jersey State Breastfeeding Coordinator at CJFHC 
  With expertise in both community-based lactation support and statewide policymaking, Ellen develops equitable and actionable strategies for employers, lactating employees and the community organizations that support them. 
• Trish Perlmutter, Associate Director for Policy, Outreach, & Community Relations, DCR
  Trish brings an in-depth understanding of New Jersey's legal framework and shares practical ways employers can ensure compliance and foster inclusivity.
• Jane Duncan, State, Local & Tribal Program Coordinator, EEOC
  Jane provides a federal perspective on enforcement mechanisms and key insights into how the PWFA impacts workplaces nationwide.

Hosted by Experienced Leaders

The program will open with remarks from Sundeep Iyer, Director of the Division on Civil Rights, and be moderated by Kai Durant, DCR’s Community Relations Specialist, who will also deliver closing remarks.

A Shared Commitment to Health Equity

The intersection of health, family, and career is crucial to fostering a thriving community. By promoting education on workplace accommodations for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, this program aligns with DCR and CJFHC's mission to get rid of disparities and enhance support systems for all workers.

Let’s continue to build workplaces that empower employees and champion health equity.

How to Register

Registration is free, and all are welcome. Sign up today to reserve your spot for this informative session.

Together, we can create inclusive environments where no one has to choose between their health and their career.