What Exactly Is Workplace Discrimination?

Ever feel like you’re being treated differently at work for reasons that have nothing to do with your skills or performance? You might be experiencing workplace discrimination. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Workplace discrimination happens when an employer treats an employee unfairly based on certain personal characteristics that have no bearing on their ability to do the job. These characteristics are known as “protected classes” and can include things like race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation).

It’s More Common Than You Think

Imagine you’re a highly qualified candidate who aces the job interview, but you don’t get hired because the employer doesn’t want to hire someone of your ethnicity. Or maybe you’re consistently passed over for promotions or given less desirable assignments because of your age or gender. These are all examples of workplace discrimination.

Here are three surprising facts about this issue:

• It’s not just about hiring and firing. Discrimination can also occur in areas like pay, job assignments, promotions, training, and other terms and conditions of employment.

• It’s not always intentional. Even unintentional or unconscious biases can lead to discriminatory practices.

• It’s illegal. Workplace discrimination is prohibited by federal laws like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Common Types of Discrimination

Some of the most common types of workplace discrimination include:

• Race/Color Discrimination: Being treated unfairly because of race or skin color.
• Religious Discrimination: Being treated unfairly because of religious beliefs or practices.
• Age Discrimination: Being treated unfairly because of age (typically over 40).
• Disability Discrimination: Being treated unfairly because of a physical or mental disability.
• Sex/Gender Discrimination: Being treated unfairly because of gender, pregnancy, or gender identity.

What Can You Do?

If you believe you’ve experienced workplace discrimination, there are steps you can take:

• Document everything. Keep detailed records of any incidents, including dates, times, and witnesses.
• Report it internally. Most companies have policies and procedures for reporting discrimination.
• File a complaint. If the issue isn’t resolved internally, you can file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or your state’s fair employment agency.

Remember, workplace discrimination is illegal, and you have rights. Don’t be afraid to speak up and seek help.

Learn More

• Workplace Harassment: Unwelcome conduct based on protected characteristics that creates a hostile work environment.
• Reasonable Accommodation: Modifications or adjustments that allow individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
• Retaliation: Punishing an employee for reporting discrimination or participating in an investigation.