The ratio of discrimination that takes place in workplaces is much higher, as employees are treated unfairly or harassed due to their religious beliefs, race, sex, ethnicity, age, disability, color, origin, and various other classifications.
Unfortunately, workplace discrimination is very common in today’s world. And if you don’t confront them in time, it can cause you mental, emotional, and even physical fall-backs or damage. If you are discriminated against at your workplace, don’t hesitate to take action to protect yourself and those around you.
Remember that discrimination is unlawful by act and is considered a punishable offense according to federal and state laws of the Equality Act and Civil Rights Act. Here are some tips to help you understand what to do if you experience discrimination:
1. Document the occurrence
The discriminatory acts against you can go unrecognized if fail to provide relatable documents that back up your story. Oftentimes, victims fail to prove the act of discrimination and violation of laws against them. Evidence, documented journal of the incident, or a physical witness might just help you take action instantly or quickly and also successfully defend your case confidently.
2. Talk to higher authorities
There is always a higher authority unless it’s the Head of the company itself discriminating against you. If you are experiencing discrimination at your workplace, oftentimes the first step and most sensible approach are to reach out to a higher authority or your boss.
Remember that running away from these problems is not the solution and nothing guarantees that you wouldn’t be discriminated against at a new workplace. The best you can do that benefits you and those around you is to take the matter seriously. According to the laws, employees can write a detailed complaint mentioning the incident that happened. Employers are entitled to take employees’ complaints of discrimination seriously and act upon them as soon as possible. It is also considered an unlawful act for employers to retaliate against the report you have submitted for the discriminatory act. It would be considered discrimination to itself, and it is punishable in the eyes of law.
3. Take legal actions
According to the Equality Act and Civils Right Act, discrimination is an illegal act and not acceptable. Employees who are discriminated against have all the rights to file a lawsuit against individuals or the organization itself.
These lawsuits will take time and investigations to prove your points but it’s worth the fact that it won’t be repeated again.
Final Words
Don’t hesitate on taking action against discrimination that occurs to you, instead confidently stand to act against these discriminatory acts to make the society you live in a better place. The federal government laws and state laws stand behind you if you document your case well and prove them.
