978 F.2d 1529 (9th Cir. 1996)
Sever v. Alaska Pulp Corp.
Did Alaska Pulp Corp. engage in unlawful retaliation against John Sever in violation of the ADA for his having filed complaints of disability discrimination?
Under the ADA, retaliation against an employee for engaging in protected activities, such as filing a discrimination complaint, is prohibited. To establish a prima facie case of retaliation, the employee must demonstrate (1) engagement in a protected activity, (2) an adverse employment action, and (3) a causal link between the two.
The Ninth Circuit held that Sever established a prima facie case of retaliation under the ADA. The evidence presented supported the claim that adverse employment actions were taken against Sever as a direct result of his engagement in protected activities.
Sever v. Alaska Pulp Corp. is instrumental for law students in understanding the intricacies of retaliation claims under the ADA. The case serves as an essential reference for analyzing how courts determine the causal link necessary to establish retaliation. By reinforcing the protections offered to employees, the ruling aids in comprehending how anti-retaliation provisions are crucial for the effective enforcement of anti-discrimination laws.