Anti-discrimination laws exist for the state and local US governments. So, if you ever experience any such violations, you will need to file reports to the respective offices.
An exclusive recruitment platform, Power to Fly, reports that 61% of the working population are still facing some discrimination issues, whether at the workplace firsthand or by word of mouth. The results draw attention to the importance of adopting actual strategies to foster really inclusive working environments in organizations.
You need not be very anxious if you are planning to report about a discrimination incident that you experienced at the workplace. Should you be fired for reporting discrimination, some legal remedies for holding the employer responsible are available.
Let us examine the steps necessary for taking action against unfair dismissal.
What Happens When You Report Workplace Discrimination?
Your job situation may change for good or worse after you report discrimination.
Of course, the company should investigate your grievances whenever the facts come to light.
Your employer or the relevant authority assigned to act against workplace discrimination should initiate interviews with all involved and review all relevant documentation regarding the claim.
Dealing with such a serious issue can be intimidating. After the investigation, your employer will act on what to do about the findings. Your report may result in disciplinary action against the offenders. Other companies may revise specific policies to improve the workplace environment.
Unfortunately, there are some cases where retaliation is the recourse of the employer. The individual who reported the issue could get fired. This dismissal could pose a significant change to one’s livelihood.
According to a wrongful termination lawyer in NYC, losing a job unfairly or under suspicious circumstances is not just a professional setback. This kind of outcome can jeopardize a person’s financial well-being, physical health, and mental health.
What Legal Protections Exist for Whistleblowers?
In the event of a whistleblower’s complaint of discrimination, necessary steps to protect the interests of the whistleblower have to be put in place.
The Whistleblower Protection Act is one federal law that prevents any retaliation against the reporting of discrimination or harassment. This means that you cannot be fired, laid off, or mistreated in any way by any employer for having filed a grievance about discrimination. There are several states that have protection laws for whistleblowers.
A potential whistleblower case could provide enough grounds for the EEOC or some other concerned administrative agencies to act on behalf of the affected employees and protect their rights under federal laws.
Potential Risks and Consequences of Reporting Discrimination
Knowing your rights is perhaps the best way to shield yourself and your future.
You could expect your boss to have an aggressive reaction toward you after you filed your complaint.
You may feel the workplace has become hostile against you. You may experience your hours being cut back. In the worst cases, you can even lose your job.
Bringing up these experiences may affect the quality of relationships with coworkers. Workers may exclude you from their group. The increase in workplace hostility can affect your productivity as an employee.
Being able to put an end to those acts of discrimination in a timely manner would be mostly beneficial in preventing further acts that are similar in nature. An employer or supervisor is expected to implement measures that would prevent any likelihood of discrimination.
Safeguarding Your Rights When Reporting Discrimination
It is very necessary that you have enough evidence while reporting discrimination at work since Title VII of the Civil Rights Act clearly prohibits discrimination on the basis of color, race, national origin, religion, etc.
Record the conversation with the offender. Get the names of witnesses who can be prepared to support your version.
After gathering enough evidence, report the incident to your immediate superior or the HR department.
Such incidents have importance to the company’s concerns for discrimination and retaliation.
It is natural to be uncertain about this approach. You could consult a lawyer or an advocacy group for help.
What to Do If You Face Retaliation?
In case your boss or employer is abusive toward you after you have complained about discrimination of any kind at where you work, then the worker should be aware of what steps can be taken.
You should have a detailed record of each even when incidents happen. Write the date and names of witnesses present who can support your statement.
As you prepare to take a further stance, detailed documentation will serve as substantial evidence for you.
If a complaint is made against someone holding authority, the individual should report it to their union representative, plant manager, safety officer or, if necessary, local human resources officials. External reporting through corporate HR can also resolve these problems.
Try to stick with your rights. Remember, it is not healthy to let workplace retaliation grow.
To report workplace discrimination is an intimidating and daunting task. There are risks that you may face from coworkers and even employers. You must know that reporting discriminatory acts is not a bad thing. In fact, you are standing up for what is right.
In case you have been retaliated against after doing what you believe is right, there are laws like the Whistleblower Protection Act that are there to support and protect you.
Repeated instances of workplace discrimination should be reported and documented for legal purposes.
