Discrimination in the workplace is something that a surprising number of people experience. Unfortunately, most people just ignore the injustice and either continue working for the company, or try to find another job where they hope to be treated fairly. In order to actually stop this type of discrimination, however, it is important that everyone understands what types of employment discrimination exist under the laws, what it looks like, and then stands up and fight for their rights. The following are seven of the more common types of employment description that manifest today.
1. Age Discrimination
Many companies will pass over certain people for promotions because they want someone who will be able to remain in the role for years before retirement. The same justification is often given by hiring managers when hiring in new employees. Even if a company doesn’t come right out and say this is the reason for failing to hire or promote an older person, it can still be age discrimination based on the circumstances, and a violation of the Age Discrimination Employment Act.
2. Religious Discrimination
It is illegal to discriminate against an employee or potential employee due to their religious beliefs. If you are treated unjustly because of your religious beliefs, whatever religion it may be, it may be illegal. There are many examples of religious discrimination including being forced to work on days that are forbidden by your religion, not being allowed to pray at work, and much more.
3. Gender Discrimination
Gender discrimination is one of the most common types of employment discrimination that takes place today. If you are passed over for a promotion because you are female or male, or a manager only takes one gender out for team building events, or anything similar, it could potentially be gender discrimination. If your employer pays males more than females or vice versa for the same job, it can also be an example of gender discrimination.
4. Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination can be considered a subcategory of gender discrimination, because it only applies to women, but it is unique in many ways. Employers are expected to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant women as well as new mothers. If you are passed over for a promotion, not hired, or even fired because you are pregnant or recently had a child, your employer may be violating the law.
5. Sexual Orientation Discrimination
Employers may not discriminate against people due to their sexual orientation. If an employer refuses to hire or promote you because of this, they are likely in violation of state law. In addition, if you are treated poorly or differently than other employees because of your sexual orientation, it could constitute illegal discrimination.
6. Disability Discrimination
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are obligated to make reasonable accommodations to ensure that those with disabilities are able to perform their job functions. From a legal perspective, disabilities can be physical, mental, or emotional in nature, and they are all protected by law. A practical example of this could include an employer unwilling to install computer software designed to make it possible for someone who is blind to interact with their work systems properly.
7. Racial Discrimination
When people think about discrimination, racial discrimination is typically what first comes to mind. This can be direct (i.e. making inappropriate comments or seldom/never hiring those of a particular race), or creating company policies that have a disparate impact on minorities. Whether direct and obvious, or subtle and discrete, racial discrimination is not just immoral, it is illegal.
Get the Representation You Need
If you feel that you have been unjustly discriminated in the workplace, please contact Carla D. Aikens to go over your situation. We’ll be happy to talk with you about your experience, and provide you with the information you need to decide how to best proceed.
Carla D. Aikens, P.L.C.
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