Legal Question in Employment Law in California

It would not be unlawful discrimination if an employer takes an adverse action for a non-protected absence. Leaves of absence that are not protected under the law leave an at-will employee at the mercy of the employer. But even if the leave were protected, it would require a tangible act causing the employee substantial damages to make a discrimination case worthwhile, such as a demotion or termination. It is not clear how being ineligible for a recognition program would meet that criteria.