How To Report Discrimination In The Workplace

When you believe that you are suffering from discrimination, you might wonder if you are simply imagining the incident or if you should report it. In many cases, if you don't know who to turn to, the best option might be to speak with an employment lawyer.

The Process of Reporting Discrimination

Some businesses have their own internal process of reporting discrimination. You may need to speak with a human resources representative or call a hotline. By contacting the right individual, you can increase the odds that the appropriate actions are taken and that you are able to seek compensation for damages you have suffered.

For example, you might need to make a report to show that certain behavior is unwanted. For example, if there is unwanted flirting, you will need to make it clear that this type of behavior is unwanted. Whether or not behavior is allowed can sometimes be blurry because incidents that are considered minor and isolated are sometimes permitted. 

Also, teasing can often be considered acceptable in some contexts, especially if it's a normal part of your relationship. Make sure to carefully explain the incident to an attorney to make sure that you have a legal case.

Why the Process Doesn't Always Help

In some cases, the individual to who you are supposed to report your problems is also the individual responsible for causing them. In this case, you may need to get in contact with an employment attorney who will go over your legal options with you. However, as long as you properly report the act of discrimination you face, you are protected from retaliation.

How to Know If You're Being Discriminated Against

While anyone can be discriminated against for any reason, you may need to be discriminated against based on a protected category. This can include your race, religion, disability, whether or not you are pregnant, your religion, or your sex or gender. 

Whether or not your sexual orientation is considered a protected category might be subject to change since these areas of law are in the process of changing. Also, many states and municipalities do not allow for discrimination on a basis of sexual orientation. 

Employer Retaliation

You may be retaliated against in subtle ways such as being passed up for a promotion or facing a hostile work environment. You must bring this up with your attorney when deciding on how to best proceed.


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