Discrimination in the workplace is illegal. Most commonly, these incidents occur based on an individual’s protected characteristics, such as gender or race, or as a formal of retaliation. For example, an employee’s contract might be terminated despite their excellent performance record, and this might be due to their protected class.
If you suspect that you are being discriminated against or harassed at work, there are numerous things you need to do. This post outlines three of the steps you should follow to ensure you cope with this situation.
Begin Keeping Evidence
When you first realize you are being discriminated against, you must begin keeping documents and other forms of evidence. Evidence might include emails, memos, office communications, performance reviews, text messages, and voicemails. These forms of proof might be sent directly to you or brought to your attention by another member of staff. Either way, it is essential to keep them if they prove your experience with discrimination.
As well as documenting evidence, you should also keep a record of the discriminatory incidents at work. This sort of information will include dates, locations, times, and any witnesses to the incident. Using a notebook or a personal laptop is best when recording this evidence; you must not do so on any company equipment, like a computer or phone. After all, if your discriminatory treatments results in you being fired, you might not have access to the device at a later date.
Consult with an Employment Lawyer
Before you move ahead, you should make the time to speak with an attorney who specializes in employment law. Workplace discrimination is illegal, and it is expected that companies comply with the law regarding this. Knowing workplace discrimination laws will ensure you are well aware of the treatment you received and how it does not follow the law. You should find a reputable lawyer with experience in workplace discrimination cases.
An experienced lawyer will be able to explain the process and identify any relevant correspondence or documents that could be used to support your case. You must do this before making a formal complaint as the lawyer can advise you whether this is an effective strategy to take. The attorney will explain your rights under employment laws and how you can protect yourself going forward.
Make a Formal Complaint
After contacting an attorney, they will say whether it is a good idea to file a complaint with your employer. It is your employer’s responsibility to ensure the workplace is free of discrimination and harassment. Filing a complaint with them allows the organization to receive proper notice about your issue.
However, it is worth remembering that the Human Resources department of the company will look out for the company’s best interests. This means they will try to prevent bad publicity from affecting the company, even if your discrimination claims are truthful. Again, speaking with your lawyer before making a complaint will help you understand when and how to file an official complaint.
To conclude, if you suspect you are being discriminated against at work, you should keep a record of evidence, consult with a employment attorney, and file a formal complaint with your lawyer.
