A protected activity is a type of conduct that an employer may do which an employer may not retaliate against. If an employer does retaliate against the worker, it violates the law. Under California law, protected activities include:
Filing a claim or informing your employer of your intent to file a complaint with the Labor Commission;
Whistleblowing;
Filing a civil suit against the employer;
Talking about your low wages or the non-payment of wages owed to you;
Attempting to use sick leave because a family member is ill or injured;
Engaging in political activities;
Updating personal and work information;
Taking time off from work due to jury duty service or to serve as a witness in a court case; and
Reporting unsafe work practices or conditions.