Your seniors and coworkers may treat you differently or less favorably because of your identity (race, color, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, religion, disability and genetic information. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) protects employees against these forms of discrimination. However, you should recognize when it’s happening to take action sooner.
Here are four signs of discrimination at work.
Being overlooked for opportunities
If your employer overlooks you for promotions, you may be experiencing discrimination, especially if everyone being favored belongs to a particular group, be it race, age or gender identity and so on. This may indicate that promotions are not based on performance.
Denial of reasonable accommodations
If you ask your employer to make a reasonable change because of your disability or religious beliefs, and they refuse, they may have treated you unfairly. For instance, pregnant employees should have flexible schedules and reduced physical work. It’s also reasonable for employers to grant employees a fair religious leave.
Uncomfortable conversations
It can be uncomfortable when your coworkers and seniors make derogatory jokes and comments about your identity, especially after asking them to stop. This can create a hostile work environment and can constitute discrimination.
Unequal pay
If you hold the same position as a colleague, performing the same duties, you should be paid equally. Being paid unequally can be discriminatory. However, with this matter, you may need to discuss wages to learn about the differences.
You have the right to discuss salaries with other employees. Some employers prohibit it, but in most cases, they do so to conceal unequal pay.
These signs should help you identify when you are being discriminated against at work. If you experience any form of discrimination, you should get legal help to protect your rights.
