Employment discrimination refers to the unfair treatment of an employee or colleague at a workplace. This is primarily due to race, religion, colour, sexual orientation, or gender. This has always been an issue in workplaces that involve people with different beliefs and traditions. The good thing, however, is that it has been on a steady downward trend over the years. That is gratifying to know because it shows that people are becoming mindful of their colleagues and employees.  

But while the number of discrimination charges has fallen, they have yet to be eliminated completely. There are still thousands of such charges filed each year, which is far too much in this—or any—day and age. Employment discrimination can take many insidious forms and it can affect a large number of people.

However, there are some types of employment discrimination that are more common. Those common types of discrimination are described below, and if you find that you have experienced any of them, then contact the Rubin Law Corporation for expert legal representation. They will fight for the rights of any employee in California who has experienced the sting of employee discrimination.

Retaliation Discrimination

This is when an employee faces severe consequences from their employer for asserting their rights or filing a complaint. Those consequences include being fired, being demoted, or being sanctioned. Ironically, retaliation discrimination is a result of employees filing complaints about other forms of workplace discrimination, which is what makes it such a bitter pill to swallow.

However, asserting one’s right to file a complaint against discriminatory behavior is called protected activity, and should not result in employment termination or demotion. Since retaliation discrimination is related to other forms of workplace discrimination, it is the most common type of employment discrimination experienced by workers across the United States.

Disability Discrimination

Another form of discrimination is based on one’s disability. It’s quite common, especially in those workplaces with very few people living with various forms of disabilities. It occurs when an employer or colleague treats team members unfavourably because of their physical or any other form of limitation. 

It’s worth noting that this form of discrimination can also occur when an employee mistreats workers because of their history of disability or on account of a mental or physical impairment. 

If you believe that you’re a victim of this form of discrimination at your workplace, you can seek information from professionals like Aaron Waxman and Associates or any employment discrimination lawyer within your locality. These professionals will help you get justice and any related compensation, whether short- or long-term. 

Racial Discrimination

Most people are familiar with the concept of racial discrimination even if they have never experienced it, and it is unfortunate that it is still so prevalent today. An employee experiences racial discrimination when they are fired, demoted, underpaid, harassed, or denied job opportunities because of their race or ethnicity.

Most employers will deny that any action taken against an employee is because of their race. That is why employees should take note and keep records of any instances where their bosses engaged in discriminatory language or practices. The occasional comment is not grounds for a discrimination case under the law, but persistent negative comments and behavior establishes a pattern and creates a hostile work environment. It should also be noted that workplace practices that apply to everyone, but which negatively affects a racial or ethnic group also counts as discrimination if that practice is not necessary for the running of the business.

Gender Discrimination

This is another very common form of employment discrimination that occurs in most workplaces. Unfortunately, many people don’t know that they’re victims until it’s too late, or they’re afraid to come out due to the fear of losing their jobs. 

Many of the same principles that apply to racial discrimination also apply to gender discrimination. This includes creating a hostile work environment and limiting opportunities for advancement, i.e. the infamous glass ceiling. Additionally, gender discrimination can also take the form of pregnancy discrimination.

The law states that if a woman is unable to do her job because of a pregnancy, then she has the same rights as an employee with a temporary disability. Pregnancy is not a disability of course, but it does eventually result in the pregnant woman being unable to work for a while. In which case, an employer is not allowed to discriminate against her during that period.

Age Discrimination

There are many different forms of age discrimination. They range from refusing to hire older, well-qualified employees to badgering older employees to retire. This practice is illegal and if an employer engages in this kind of behavior, then the employee has legitimate grounds to take legal action. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) prevents employees and applicants aged 40 years or older from being discriminated against. That means that everyone should get a fair shot at employment regardless of their age.

Everyone Deserves To Be Treated Fairly

Discrimination should not have a place in society and it definitely should not have a place at work. Unfortunately, discrimination exists in both environments, which is why it should be fought against whenever it arises. If you experience discrimination at work, then contact the Rubin Law Corporation; they will fight for your right to be treated fairly.