Discrimination is a major violation that people face at work, and sadly it's all too common. If you're in the same boat, you'd know how excruciating it can be. It takes courage to speak up and fight back against your employer, but the law is on your side to make sure you get proper compensation for any harm done. Federal and state laws exist specifically to protect hardworking employees like you from discrimination and unfair practices at the workplace. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most common types of discrimination and how to fight back against them.
Before we dive into the different types of workplace discrimination, it's essential to know that federal and state laws prohibit discrimination based on race, age, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, or marital status. In Florida, State law also prohibits discrimination based on AIDS, HIV, and sickle cell traits, amongst other protected characteristics. Employers who violate these laws commit crimes and must answer for their actions.
Let's delve into the different types of discrimination you may have faced in your workplace. Gender discrimination can rear its ugly head in several different ways, including sexual orientation, identity, and gender roles. If you're a job applicant or employee being denied opportunities, paid less, or fired because of your gender, you have legal options. To win your case, you'll need substantial proof that your employer's actions were driven by discrimination.
Racial discrimination is a pervasive issue in the workplace, and unfortunately, it happens all too often. From being passed over for a job due to one's race to being subjected to harassment from co-workers who don't share their ethnicity, there are a myriad of ways in which people are discriminated against when it comes to employment. One particularly insidious aspect of racial discrimination in the workplace is when the person responsible is of the same race as the victim. While the law prohibits employers from discriminating based on race regarding hiring, evaluations, salary, and other workplace facets, discriminatory behaviors can still occur despite these protections. Individuals and companies must remain vigilant in rooting out and putting a stop to all forms of racial discrimination in the workplace.
Disability is a term used to describe an individual affected by a physical or mental impairment, hindering their ability to carry out duties presently or in the long term. Several conditions, such as HIV, MS, cancer, visual impairment, and physical disfigurement, automatically qualify as a disability. Disability discrimination accounts for any discrimination someone faces based on their disability status. This form of discrimination can take many shapes, including being overlooked for job opportunities due to their disability or being treated unfairly, harassed, or ridiculed due to their condition. Unfortunately, occurrences of individuals not receiving the necessary reasonable accommodations to perform their daily tasks remain a significant issue, pointing to the need for more education about disability rights and support for those affected.
Lastly, age discrimination occurs when older employees are unfairly treated, laid off, or excluded from promotional opportunities based solely on their age. This kind of discrimination can often go unnoticed but may lead to significant financial and emotional damage to the employee.
Knowing what workplace discrimination looks like is the first step towards fighting it. If you've been subjected to any of these forms of discrimination, you don't have to suffer alone. Contact a lawyer or law firm specializing in employment law and workers' rights. You have rights; our team is here to help you fight for them. Don't let bullies in the workplace get away with violating the law and trampling over your dignity. Together, let's stand up against discrimination in the workplace and create positive change.
If you believe you have been discriminated against by your employer, the employment law attorneys at Roller Rubinstein are ready to fight for your rights. We offer a FREE claim evaluation to answer your questions and determine if you are entitled to compensation. Contact us today at (954) 828-0333 or request an evaluation online.
