Discrimination at work is one of the reasons people quit, become frustrated, or feel unease while working. Harassment and discrimination come in many forms, but all are illegal under state and federal law. Any time you’re harassed based on the color of your skin, your race, sex, nation of origin, pregnancy, age, or other factors, you have the right to look into compensation for your suffering.
So what do you do if you’ve faced discrimination at work? There are some steps you should follow. First, you need to discuss the situation with your employer. Your employer needs to know that you feel uncomfortable at work and that these illegal acts are taking place.
Next, make your employer aware that this is a serious situation and that you’re taking it as such. Every time you have to file a complaint, you should ask for a written documentation of that incident. Additionally, you need to ask for an investigation into the allegations, so discipline can be applied when necessary. Your employer is required by law to look into your discrimination or harassment report promptly.
If your employer does not respond to your requests, then you can contact the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, known as the EEOC. This organization oversees compliance with federal anti-discrimination and anti-harassment laws.
Remember, keeping evidence is important to your case. Keep any harassing photos or items given to you and keep a diary of events. This can be helpful in pointing out when discrimination took place, so you can be clear when you file your case. After you collect the information needed, you can choose to file a lawsuit against the parties who have been discriminating against you.
Source: FindLaw, “Dealing with Discrimination: Tips for Employees” Nov. 13, 2014