Workplace Discrimination

Workplace Discrimination refers to the unjust or prejudiced treatment of individuals based on their identity or characteristics such as their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, or disability. Unfortunately, workplace discrimination still exists in modern society. It can take many forms such as unequal payment, harassment, or being passed over for promotions or opportunities because of one’s identity or characteristics. It can result from conscious or unconscious biases and prejudices, as well as structural and institutional barriers that put certain groups at a disadvantage. It can also be fueled by a lack of awareness or understanding about diversity and inclusion, and lack of commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

To address discrimination in the workplace, the employees need to create a culture that is inclusive and respectful towards all employees and take steps to prevent and address discrimination as and when it occurs. This can involve implementing policies and practices to prevent discrimination and harassment, providing training and education to employees and management, and responding promptly and appropriately to any reports of discrimination or harassment.

The federal agency responsible for defending employee rights is the EEOC. (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) Most businesses with over 15 workers are subject to EEOC regulations. Investigations into allegations of discrimination against employees are permitted by the EEOC. They include a wide range of workplace-related topics such as hiring, promotions, leaves of absence, salary and termination.

Discrimination in the workplace can have serious consequences for individuals, including lost income and career advancement opportunities, as well as emotional and psychological harm. The employer could also face a lawsuit, as well as a negative reputation. It can also create a hostile and unwelcoming work environment for those who are targeted.

One of the most evident issues with subtle discrimination is that the victim frequently denies experiencing prejudice at work. In certain instances, they try to downplay its significance until the point where the discriminatory actions make him unemployed.

Some examples can be considered an employee is a victim of workplace discrimination

• A person may have experienced discrimination if they are regularly chastised for making insignificant errors. A coworker’s argument can be supported if management doesn’t seem to care and gives him a second chance

• There are also instances where an employee experiences discrimination from his coworkers, but the management fails to address the issue and hold those accountable.

The difficulty faced by discrimination victims is that they are reluctant to discuss what they face for fear of retaliation. They are rarely certain that they were the victims of discrimination, which is another factor. To ensure that you are experiencing employment discrimination, it is crucial to study your rights first. This is where seeking legal guidance is important.

Knowing more about the laws that safeguard the rights of a citizen and employees is always a good thing. Even if some individuals could make an effort to persuade you that you aren't the victim of discrimination. If the federal employment law specifies otherwise, you better believe them.

Despite the existence of anti-discrimination legislation for more than fifty years, the majority of Americans still feel discriminated against in some fashion. 35% of Black employees and 49% of Black Human Resources professionals believe that discrimination exists in their employment. Additionally, a 2020 survey indicated that LGBTQ+ people face serious prejudice in their daily life, at work, and even while seeking medical care.

This problem is anything but easy. Employees have a responsibility to defend themselves and their coworkers from hostile working circumstances in a society where everyone is out for themselves. Whether we like to admit it or not, there is and has always been workplace discrimination. The staff around is undoubtedly impacted, even if we think that our workplace is impervious.

Written by Sai Siri