Employees face all kinds of issues in the workplace from worrying about getting a year-end bonus or raise to having a good, working relationship with your co-workers. Some of these concerns are common and part of working at a company. However, some of these concerns are more serious and may actually violate your rights as an employee.
Are you the victim of employment discrimination?
Discrimination is a serious, yet fairly common issue in the workplace. Some types of discrimination are blatant and easy to spot. Other violations are more difficult to see. In either case, discrimination at work can significantly harm an employee’s success at a company and their overall well-being.
Employment discrimination can come in many forms. Some of the most common discrimination claims involve:
- Race and ethnicity discrimination
- Religious and political discrimination
- Gender discrimination
- Sexual orientation discrimination
- Age discrimination
- Disability discrimination
These types of discrimination are common and fairly identifiable once employees are able to recognize the signs of unfair and illegal treatment in the workplace. In addition to these more well-known types of discrimination, employees should be aware of the other ways they may be unfairly treated. This can include:
Discrimination against part-time employees: employees who work less than 40 hours a week may be stereotyped as not being as productive or being lazy. Employers may also think part-time employees do not take their jobs seriously and not consider them for promotions or opportunities for advancement.
Discrimination against parents or caregivers: Working mothers often face discrimination at work, but it can be difficult to spot. Examples may include being denied family leave to take care of your children or a sick family member or being treated unfairly after returning from a family leave. This may include being denied a promotion or being subjected to harassment or retaliation for taking necessary and protected time off to care for your family.
You do not have to put up with discrimination at work. You have rights and legal options to pursue if you believe you are the victim of discrimination. You may be able to file a discrimination claim against your employer. An employment law attorney can help you understand your options and protect your rights before it gets any worse.
