Anti-discrimination laws in the United States are designed to protect employees from harassment and discrimination at work; however, some employees still face these issues on a regular basis. Here’s what you need to know about workplace discrimination.
When you begin working at a business, chances are you’re excited about your career opportunities. You might be looking forward to meeting your new coworkers, getting involved in the heart of the company, and making a difference in the lives of your customers. Sometimes, though, working at any business can be challenging. Work hours can be long and employer expectations can be difficult. Unfortunately, some employees face another problem: discrimination. While discrimination is illegal in the United States, it’s still something that affects adult employees across the United States. If you’re an employee, there are a few things you need to understand about gender discrimination in the workplace.
1. Gender discrimination manifests in many ways
While it might be easy to brush off harassment as “harmless joking,” it’s important to understand that it’s not socially or legally acceptable for employers or fellow coworkers to discriminate against you based on your gender. If you are told that you can’t participate on a project because “you’re a woman,” for example, this is considered to be gender discrimination. Similarly, if you are excluded from meetings, trips, or new job opportunities based on your gender, that’s discrimination, too.
2. There are laws in place to protect you
In the United States, anti-discrimination laws are designed to ensure you have a safe environment in which to work. You should be treated fairly based on your qualifications and work experience, rather than discriminated against based on your gender. Consider familiarizing yourself with some of the benefits of these laws so you know exactly how you are protected.
3. Discrimination can manifest in any career field
Whether you are a medical professional, a daycare worker, or a public school educator, understand that discrimination can happen anywhere. It’s not something that is strictly reserved for food service employees, nor is it something that only affects women. Gender discrimination can happen to anyone at any time.
4. Marriage discrimination often coincides with gender discrimination
While marriage discrimination is different than gender discrimination, it does tend to coincide with it. Understand that if you are being treated poorly or differently based on your marital status, this may be discrimination. For example, if a job opportunity is given to a male coworker because he doesn’t have a spouse and thus has “more time” to dedicate to the project, this may be discrimination.
5. You have options
You do not need to deal with discrimination on your own. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that you are the only one dealing with this issue. if you are facing harassment and discrimination in your workplace, it’s time to get the help you need to start moving forward.
If you believe you have been discriminated against in the workplace due to your gender, it’s time to seek help from an attorney. Call today. During your initial consultation, you’ll be able to share your story and find out how you can start moving forward legally.