June 25, 2015
What to do if You Experience Workplace Discrimination
Workplace discrimination, when left unchallenged, can become a serious issue and a hindrance to a person’s career. Many different types of discrimination exist, such as discrimination of disability, gender, race, religion, age, and sexual harassment. Experiencing any of these issues can be emotionally damaging, and in extreme cases can result in wrongful termination. Learn how to detect and protect yourself from workplace discrimination so that if this unfair treatment happens to you, you will know exactly what to do.
Document Discrimination
If you suspect you are being discriminated against at work, or have directly been discriminated against at work, one of the most important things you can do is document all situations where you experience a form of workplace discrimination. If you are a member of a protected class, such as those listed above, documenting specific situations will help to serve as proof of the workplace discrimination that you have experienced.
Direct evidence is best, as it can be saved and recorded. This type of evidence can come in the form of verbal statements or statements written in letters, notes, or emails. The other type of evidence is circumstantial. For instance, you might be looked over for a project or promotion, or even let go without legitimate cause. Make personal notes of any instances where you suspect workplace discrimination has taken place. Describe the event and the reason you suspect it was discriminatory. Any kind of evidence you can collect may help your case in the future.
Speak Up
If you are in a situation in the workplace that makes you feel uncomfortable, where you feel that people are making discriminatory comments or even harassing you, speak up. Tell your coworker that you feel their comment was inappropriate and that you would not like such comments to be made to you in the future. If necessary, talk to your supervisor about the situation. If you are facing a situation where you think other coworkers that are not a member of your protected class are advancing more quickly than you, even though you are equally or more qualified, this is another instance where you should speak up to your supervisor.
Get Professional Help with Your Claim
If the workplace discrimination that you are experiencing progresses to a level beyond what can be settled with your supervisor or coworkers, it may be time to seek professional counsel and file a legal claim. This is especially true if you are wrongfully laid off. An experienced employment lawyer can guide you through the legal process, gather evidence, and help you receive compensation for the workplace discrimination that you have unfairly been forced to go through. Workplace discrimination is a serious and illegal offense, and you have the right to stand up for yourself under the law.
The attorneys at the law offices of Daniel C. Miller are experienced in handling cases of workplace discrimination and harassment. Call (816) 875-0470 in Missouri or (913) 624-9646 in Kansas today to get professional help from a trusted employment attorney.