Workplace discrimination is a serious issue. Unfortunately, it is all too common in California and throughout the United States. In fact, the most recent report by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) shows that more than 67448 workplace discrimination claims were filed, and only 17.4% of them were successful. They included:
Gender discrimination
When an employer fails to hire and promote, sideline, underpay or penalize someone for being persistent or aggressive while rewarding a colleague of a different gender, they are breaking the employment law. Gender discrimination goes beyond being male or female; it could also include pregnant mothers or gays and lesbians.
Race discrimination
This occurs when an employer treats an employee or applicant differently because of their race or skin color. It can also happen when an employer has policies or practices that have a negative impact on people of a certain race, even if those policies or practices are not specifically intended to discriminate against them.
Age discrimination
EEOC receives increasing reports of discrimination claims from baby boomers nearing retirement. This comes in many forms. For example, people over 40 years find it very difficult to get a job, are constantly harassed, overlooked during promotions, and underpaid. However, you should note that some instances may appear as discrimination, but in reality, they are not. For example, if a job requires a certain level of experience, it may rule out some applicants who are too young or too old for the position.
Disability Discrimination
Federal and state laws protect employees from discrimination based on disability. Employers cannot discriminate against employees or applicants with disabilities, and they must provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the business. Reasonable accommodations may include:
- Making the work environment accessible to people with disabilities.
- Modifying equipment or devices.
- Providing interpreters or other auxiliary aids.
- Making changes to workplace policies or practices.
If you have been the victim of workplace discrimination, it is important to know that you have rights. You may be able to file a claim with the EEOC or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). Remember that few of these claims are successful; therefore, it’s in your best interest to gather sufficient evidence to build a strong case against your discriminatory employer.
