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Navigating Employment Discrimination

Aug. 28, 2019

Even in 2019, employment discrimination is a subject of concern across many workplaces in the country. The issue of minimum wage, hiring people of certain race or ethnicity, forcefully asking employees to work under hostile environment or refusing to promote individuals because of personal enmity are some examples of employment discrimination. In such conditions, knowing your rights can help you overcome discrimination at the workplace and provide for a safe working environment.

Stay Aware of Your Rights

Employment discrimination laws prevent employers from rejecting individuals based upon their age, race, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation. It also involves unlawful termination, promotions, or providing work that may lead to harassment. Because discrimination can result in individuals getting deprived of their property or liberty, there are various laws to support employees in the workplace. The Equal Pay Act helps every individual receive modest pay and a job – based on their skills, responsibilities and effort. It also holds true for pregnancy-based discrimination where employers refuse to provide working conditions, lawful promotions and equal pay to pregnant women. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers and unions from providing employment based upon race, religion, sex, disability or national origin.

Likewise, The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) ensures there is no discrimination based upon the age of an individual and provides guidelines on how pension and retirement plans are managed. Lastly, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) continues to monitor and enforce federal laws, which help employees in Illinois and other states work with dignity and respect.

Educate Yourself about Discrimination

In an event of employment discrimination, it is important to stay aware of laws that help protect you and your peers. The Illinois Department of Human Rights provides a variety of resources on how to identify any discrimination happening to you or your peers. You can also consult a skilled employment attorney to increase your knowledge, highlight any issues you saw at your workplace, or lodge a formal complaint or legal filling of discrimination in accordance with the Illinois Human Rights Act. A discrimination charge can be filed within 300 days of the date of alleged discrimination.

Pay Attention to Actions

As an employee, it is important to stay aware of any discrimination taking place around you. Look for policies your workplace follows. Any discrimination and deviations should immediately be reported. Before implicating anyone for discrimination, know the background information and try to mediate the issue on a prompt basis.

If you want to know more about employment discrimination, make sure to schedule a free consultation by contacting the Law Office of Michael Smith to talk with an experienced employment lawyer.