Discrimination comes in many different forms, but it is never acceptable. When an employee discriminates against a fellow employee, it could be cause for termination. On the other hand, when an employer discriminates against an employee or fails to address interpersonal conflict, it could result in a lawsuit.
Have you experienced discrimination in the workplace West Covina CA? Here are five examples of what it may look like.
1. Race and Ethnicity
According to Forbes, approximately 25% of Black and Hispanic workers report experiencing workplace discrimination within the United States. Racial discrimination includes, but is not limited to, racial profiling during the hiring process, dress code policies that prohibit natural or protective hairstyles, and the use of racial or ethnic slurs.
2. Religion
Employers must make reasonable accommodations when it comes to certain aspects of their employees’ religious beliefs and practices. This includes allowing time off for religious observances and permitting the use of religious clothing, such as headscarves or kippot.
Employees cannot, however, refuse to fulfill their work duties for religious reasons. For example, Kim Davis was found in contempt of court for refusing marriage licenses to same-sex couples in the state of Kentucky.
3. Sex, Gender, and Sexuality
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits sex-based discrimination within the workplace. In the year 2020, the Supreme Court clarified that Title VII covers LGBTQIA+ people, including transgender people. Employers cannot claim a religious exemption to fire LGBTQIA+ employees.
4. Pregnancy
Employers cannot refuse to hire pregnant people, deny time off for pregnancy-related issues, fire someone for becoming pregnant, or refuse reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers.
5. Age and Disability
Employers cannot deny health coverage or benefits for employees based on their age or disabilities. Reasonable accommodations and accessibility options must be made available for employees with disabilities, whether they be physical or mental.
You are your own best advocate. However, you always have avenues of support. If you feel mistreated while at work, contact your human resources department. Should that fail, consult a lawyer. When it comes to discrimination, the law is on your side.