What is Discrimination in the Workplace?
With the subject of discrimination being in the spotlight for at least a decade, you’d think there would be more progress than there has been. Forty percent of the women in the US have experienced gender-related discrimination in their careers while 42% of employees say they’ve witnessed or faced racism or sexism in the workplace. The time has come to put a stop to discrimination in the workplace. In a large city like Los Angeles, there are hundreds of employees who don’t feel safe or welcome in their workplace.
If you are a victim of discrimination at your place of employment, the best step to take is to speak with a Los Angeles Employment Attorney who can help you navigate the legal syste
What is Discrimination in the Workplace?
Discrimination is unfair treatment that is based on one’s skin color, race, religion, age, sex, sexual identity, or any other factor that makes them “different” than what the perpetrator feels is “normal”. When discrimination happens in the workplace, it interferes with production and may also stand in the way of promotions and other forms of advancement. Discrimination creates a hostile environment for the victim and all others that are around.
Types of Discrimination
There are many types of discrimination. In the days of the past, African Americans were made to use separate public restroom and drink from designated water fountains. Today, most situations aren’t as obvious but they are still wrong. When an older woman is passed up for a management position she applied for and more than meets the requirements for, discrimination is in full force. The lesbian who hired in at the same time the straight girl did and hasn’t seen the two pay raises the straight girl who the boss has is eyes on is a victim of discrimination.
Discrimination can be verbal, nonverbal, physical, or can simply be not being treated in the same manner as others. When job promotions, raises, and general inclusion separate someone from the rest, discrimination is in play.
When the company faces layoffs, who is the first to go? You? Discrimination affects hiring, firing, job assignments, salary, training, layoffs, and more. It can be based on your race, age, gender, or practically anything else.
Some types of discrimination can be less obvious to pinpoint but it’s no secret it exists. If you are a victim of discrimination, an attorney who specializes in such matters can help you by guiding you through the steps of a civil lawsuit.
Discrimination Laws in California
California doesn’t tolerate discrimination in the workplace. Employers aren’t allowed to treat anyone unfairly based on age, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, or any other discriminatory factor.
California laws prohibit discrimination in any business practice including hiring, employee transfers, advertisements, job applications, job screenings, job interviews, promotions, terminations or separations, participation in training or apprenticeship programs, participation in employee unions or organizations, or working conditions like compensations and benefits.
California law protects against discrimination in that employers can’t treat anyone unfairly or different based on:
- Religion or creed
- Race or color
- Ancestry or national origin
- Sexual orientation
- Age (if over 40)
- Sex including pregnancy, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions
- Gender identity or gender expression
- Disability including mental and physical
- Martial status
- Genetic information
- Medical condition
- Military or veteran status
Protections under California law are rigid. Courts can demand employers to provide pay back compensation to victims for earnings they’ve lost due to discrimination. They can also order an employer to reinstate or hire a person who has been discriminated against and even pay them out-of-pocket expenses or promote the employee who was passed up for an advancement. Employers may be made to make changes in their policies. Courts can also make employers who are guilty of discrimination pay the legal fees of the victim. Clearly, discrimination is not tolerated in California.
The catch is that in order to be protected by the law, you must make it known that you’ve been treated unfairly. Legal action is a recourse many have had to turn to in order to right the wrong.
In speaking to an employment lawyer, you’ll learn about filing with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) which is the first step you’ll take in getting justice. The DFEH is an organization that investigates discrimination and attempts to resolve the situation. In the event that the case is not resolved between the employer and the victim, the next step is to file a lawsuit against the employer. It is best to go through a Los Angeles Employment Attorney if you are going to pursue a legal case.
Some types of discrimination can be less obvious to pinpoint but it’s no secret it exists. If you are a victim of discrimination, an attorney who specializes in such matters can help you by guiding you through the steps of a civil lawsuit.
Benefits of Hiring a Los Angeles Employment Law Attorney
You may be thinking that hiring a Los Angeles Employment Law Attorney is a little extreme because the discrimination in the workplace is probably not the first time you’ve experienced prejudice in one way or another. Discrimination is wrong. It certainly doesn’t belong in the workplace. If it is interfering with your job, taking action may be the right thing to do.
The benefits of having a Los Angeles Employment Attorney are:
- You aren’t alone. You have a professional on your side.
- A seasoned attorney can make your voice heard.
- You may be due compensation for the discrimination and an attorney can fight for your right to get it.
- You will likely not get far without legal representation.
Los Angeles Employment Law Attorney | Point Law Group
If you are in need of an expert in discrimination at the workplace, contact Point Law Group. The legal team of experts will passionately fight for justice. You shouldn’t have to feel inferior or have your work and advancements hindered because of your race, sex, age, skin color, religion, sexual orientation, or any other discriminatory factor. Call today for a no-obligation consultation – (310) 560-0606.
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