Though we would like to think that there is no more racial discrimination in the modern era, unfortunately, this is far from the truth. In reality, many people experience discrimination based on characteristics they can’t control, such as race, gender, disability, and sexual orientation. Unfortunately, much of this harassment happens in the workplace as employees are simply trying to make a living. If you’re subjected to race-based discrimination at work and want to file a report, a Providence, Rhode Island race discrimination lawyer can help. Keep reading to learn more about this process.
What Is Race-Based Discrimination?
When someone faces unjust and prejudicial treatment from others due to a characteristic, it is considered discrimination. In this case, when someone is subjected to unfair treatment due to the color of their skin, it is considered race-based discrimination.
Generally, in the workplace, these instances are not always outright and blatant but are typically much more subtle. For example, if someone is subjected to microaggressions, which are small actions and behaviors that create a hostile work environment, this is considered discrimination. This behavior can be a manager refusing to learn how to pronounce a name correctly or perpetuating stereotypes, which is just as discriminatory as more blatant forms of racism, such as segregating employees.
Unfortunately, proving discrimination can be a challenging process. One of the most challenging times to prove discrimination is during the hiring process, as an employer may pass over an applicant simply because of their skin color. However, as there are so many factors that go into the hiring process, it is challenging to prove that you didn’t get a job because of your skin color.
It’s important to understand that the law is on your side in instances of discrimination. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employers are prohibited from the following discriminatory behaviors:
- Making hiring or firing decisions based on race
- Refusing to promote an employee because of their race
- Failing to provide the proper benefits or pay to an employee based on race
- Harassing and unwelcomed conduct
How Do I File a Report?
If you want to file a report because you have been subjected to race-based discrimination in the workplace, it is your right to do so. You can file with your local government agency and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within sixty days of the discriminatory behavior.
However, you should still enlist the guidance of an experienced employment attorney to fight for the justice you deserve when you are facing racial discrimination in the workplace.
At the Herman Law Group, we believe all employees should have the same opportunities to make a living. If you’re experiencing discrimination in the workplace, contact our office today to connect with a competent attorney to discuss the details of your case during a free consultation.