Unfortunately, workplace discrimination is alive and well in the USA, even though Federal law and laws in most states prohibit this. Discrimination can be difficult to prove, and many companies deny that it even exists. This leaves employees scared to report it as they may be labeled a liar and could even lose their job over the issue. Here are the most common types of workplace discrimination and some advice on what to do if you think that you are a victim.
Age
These days people work until they are much older than they might have done in the past. Improvements in medicine and diet have led to older people feeling a lot fitter and healthier and has meant that they can go on working for longer. However, rather than seeing themselves as being inclusive and experienced, some employers feel that an older workforce will give the company a reputation for being old-fashioned. Experience comes with a price tag and employers know that if they get rid of older, more experienced employees, they can look for someone less experienced and younger who will work for less money.
Race
The USA is a melting pot of many different races, but some managers don't see it this way and will go out of their way not to hire or promote anyone from a different race or background than themselves. You may also find that managers or colleagues make insulting comments disguised as a 'joke.' These are designed to insult and should be reported as racial discrimination.
Gender
The days of men and women being separated in the workplace are long gone and these days it is accepted that men and women can perform the same job to the same standard. They should also expect to be paid the same wage. However, a person's salary is usually shrouded in secrecy. Your starting salary or your pay rise is not something you usually share with those around you, and you will not know if the men in your department are being paid more than the women because of their gender. Employers know this and some of them will use this secrecy to keep their costs down by paying women less than men. This is unacceptable and if you can prove that the only difference between the ability of male and female workers is their gender, then you have a strong case.
How to Deal with Discrimination
There are steps to take when facing workplace discrimination. Firstly, be sure of your facts by making a note of the discrimination as well as documenting the time and date it took place. Once you have some evidence, you should go to your HR department who may deal with it internally. If they resolve the situation in a way that satisfies you, you won't need to take it any further. However, if you don't think they have been fair to you, now is the time to consider legal action.
These are the most common types of workplace discrimination but there are many others. If you feel you are being victimized, do not suffer in silence.
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