Unlike Title VII, Section 1981 does not contain a specific statutory provision prohibiting retaliation. Applies to Section 1981 actions in the same manner as in Title VII actions). 136.Retaliation occurs when an employer treats an employee worse or takes action against an employee as a result of that employee engaging in protected activity. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act makes it unlawful to discriminate on the basis of a protected class in the workplace. Section 1981 prohibits intentional race discrimination in the making and enforcing of contracts, including at-will employment. See 42 U.S.C. § 1981(a). Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin. Title VII and Section 1981 prohibit employers from retaliating against employees because they have engaged in statutorily protected activity. Section 1981 has been interpreted very broadly to prohibit any intentional workplace discrimination or harassment based on race. §1981 (Section 1981) also creates a federal cause of action for individuals claiming intentional racial discrimination.