Our Lady of Guadalupe School v. Morrissey-Berru

**What This Case Was About** Two teachers at Catholic elementary schools sued their employers for age and disability discrimination after being fired. Both women taught mostly secular subjects but also provided some religious instruction to students. The teachers argued they should be protected by federal anti-discrimination laws that normally prevent employers from firing workers based on age or disability. **The Court's Decision** The Supreme Court ruled against the teachers, deciding they could not sue for discrimination. The Court applied the "ministerial exception," a legal rule that says religious organizations have the constitutional right to choose their own religious ministers and teachers without government interference. Since both teachers had some religious duties, the Court classified them as "ministers" even though they weren't ordained clergy. **What This Means for Workers** This ruling significantly limits workplace protections for employees at religious institutions. Teachers, counselors, and other staff at religious schools may not be able to sue for discrimination if they perform any religious functions, even minor ones. Workers at churches, religious schools, and faith-based organizations should understand they may have fewer legal protections against discrimination than employees at secular workplaces.