(a) It is unlawful for an employer or other covered entity to deny employment benefits to, harass, or intimidate any applicant or employee because the employer or other covered entity disapproves generally of the applicant's or employee's association with individuals because they are in a category enumerated in the Act.

(b) It shall be unlawful for an employer or other covered entity to deny equal consideration to any applicant or employee on the basis that he or she sympathizes with, encourages or participates in groups organized for the protection or assertion of rights protected under the Act.