Discrimination in the workplace is never okay but it is unfortunately prevalent across the country. It is important to understand how race discrimination is legally defined so you can better identify and report it if you witness it or it happens to you. For legal advice and representation, do not hesitate to contact an Atlanta race discrimination attorney at Ben Barrett Law.
What is the Legal Definition of Race Discrimination?
According to the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), race discrimination is defined as treating an applicant or employee unfavorably based on their race or characteristics associated with race. Color discrimination is similar but involves treating an individual unfavorably due to their complexion. Applicants and employees can even be racially discriminated against based on a relationship or association they have with a person of a certain race.
Is Race Discrimination Illegal?
Several laws make it illegal to discriminate against an applicant or employee based on certain protected characteristics. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it illegal to discriminate on the basis of race, color, and national origin, among other characteristics.
Employers cannot make decisions based on race, including hiring, firing, wages, promotions, training, benefits, assignments, and more. Employers and workers are prohibited from harassing individuals based on race and color as well. Harassment can come in the form of repeated jokes, slurs, derogatory remarks, offensive drawings, and more. It is also prohibited for employers to make decisions or discriminate against an employee based on stereotypes or prejudicial assumptions about the abilities or traits of certain racial groups.
What Should I Do if I’m Discriminated Against at Work?
Although we have come a long way as a nation, race discrimination still occurs frequently across the country. When an employer or coworker violates your rights by discriminating against you based on your race or perceived race, there are several options available to you.
First, review your company’s policies. You may consider reporting the incident to your manager or the HR department. Document details about any occurrences including the individual discriminating against you, what was said or done, dates and times, witnesses, and more. Your company should launch an internal investigation to identify and put an end to the discrimination.
You can also report discrimination to the EEOC online. Include detailed information about the incident(s) and work with them to schedule an interview. You may also choose to file a discrimination lawsuit directly against your employer. This must be done after first filing a report with the EEOC. Work with an experienced lawyer to file a lawsuit, present evidence, and ensure your employer is brought to justice.
It is also illegal for your employer to retaliate because of you filing a complaint or partaking in a discrimination investigation. If you have experienced race discrimination or retaliation in the workplace, reach out to an experienced employment lawyer for legal representation.
