Workplace discrimination is an unfortunate reality that many California employees have to face. Discrimination can happen in many different ways and can be difficult to identify. It’s important for California employees to know their rights and understand how to recognize when they’re being discriminated against.
- What is Workplace Discrimination?
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfairly or unfavorably because of their race, gender, age, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Discrimination can happen in any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, promotion, pay, benefits, training, and working conditions.
- Types of Workplace Discrimination
There are many different types of workplace discrimination, and it can be helpful to know what to look for. Here are some examples:
- Harassment: Unwelcome comments, gestures, or actions based on a protected characteristic.
- Unequal pay: Paying one employee less than another for the same job and experience, based on a protected characteristic.
- Retaliation: Punishing an employee for reporting discrimination or participating in a discrimination investigation.
- How to Identify Workplace Discrimination
If you suspect that you’re being discriminated against at work, there are a few things to look out for:
- Unequal treatment: If you notice that your employer is treating you differently than your coworkers based on your protected characteristic, this could be a sign of discrimination.
- Negative comments: If you’re receiving negative comments or feedback that are based on your protected characteristic, this is a form of harassment and/or discrimination.
- Lack of opportunities: If you’re not being given the same opportunities as your coworkers, this could be a sign of discrimination. For example, if you’re not being considered for a promotion based on your protected characteristic.
- Retaliation: If you’re being punished for reporting discrimination or participating in a discrimination investigation, this is a form of retaliation and is illegal.
- What to Do if You Experience Workplace Discrimination
If you suspect that you’re experiencing workplace discrimination, there are a few steps you can take:
- Keep a record: Keep a written record of any incidents of discrimination or harassment that you experience. This can help you when you’re filing a complaint.
- Report it: Report the discrimination to your employer’s HR department or a supervisor. They should have a policy in place for reporting discrimination and will investigate your complaint.
- File a complaint: If your employer does not take action or if you’re not satisfied with the outcome, you can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Division (formerly known as the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
- Speak with an attorney: If you’re considering filing a lawsuit, it’s important to speak with an experienced employment law attorney. They can help you understand your rights and the legal process.
- Conclusion
It’s important for California employees to know their rights when it comes to workplace discrimination. By understanding what to look for and what steps to take, you can protect yourself and take action if you’re being discriminated against. Remember, discrimination is illegal and you have the right to work in an environment free from discrimination.
If you would like to speak with a legal team that exclusively practices in this area of law, give us a call at 855-IM-FIRED for a free case evaluation. Our attorneys have substantial experience with these types of cases representing older individuals who have been discriminated against in the past or who are currently experiencing age discrimination There are no up-front costs and you do not pay any attorneys’ fees unless we get a recovery in the case. Contact our Los Angeles California employment attorneys and lawyers now for all of your employee rights’ needs!