Discrimination in the workplace can come in a variety forms and ways. Many employees are often times unfamiliar with the signs of workplace discrimination or unaware of how to handle suspected cases.
There are federal laws in place to protect applicants and employees from being discriminated against on the basis of their age, sex, race, religion, disability, origin, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. Often times there are additional state and local laws in place to provide protection for other reasons or to enhance the current ones.
If you feel that you may be a victim of workplace discrimination, the following ways will help you to learn how to handle your discrimination claim:
Talk to your employer. First and foremost, you will need to address your discrimination claim with your superior. There should be company policies in place in order to handle discrimination claims. By addressing your concerns, your supervisor or human resources department can often times take action and help to put an end to your potential workplace issues.
Review your company’s policy. Make yourself knowledgeable in regards to where your company stands on discrimination claims. If you do not have a copy of your company’s discrimination policy, be sure to obtain a copy of it for your reference, as well as in the case that you may be required to obtain legal counsel for your claim.
Document your claim. One of the best ways to document your discrimination claim is by keeping a diary of all incidents including the dates, times, locations, and witnesses that were involved. Be sure to have detailed information in regards to the incident as well as what exactly was said or done. Another important tip is to keep any evidence of discrimination, such as pictures, or objects that may have been given to you or posted of you.
Seek help. If you feel that your discrimination claim is not being handled appropriately, be sure to seek the help from an employment attorney. Not only will they be able to help you better understand the complex anti-discrimination laws, but they will also help you to stand up for your rights and take the necessary legal action.
Maduff & Maduff specialize in discrimination, overtime and wage theft, as well as civil rights cases. Contact us if you are in need of legal advice or representation for your employment claim.