How to Define Discrimination - Glaser Labor Law

Define Workplace Discrimination

An Explanation From Our Employment Discrimination Lawyers

Modern labor law began in 1941 with the Fair Employment Act, an executive order that prohibited racial discrimination in employment. Since then, the labor and employment laws of the country have expanded to protect employees from discrimination at work and wrongful termination on the basis of gender, religion, national origin, age and disability.

Our discrimination lawyers have handled hundreds of discrimination cases. In fact, each year the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) receives more than 6,000 reports of discrimination in California. Even with the widespread legal protection that employees have, there is still a high amount of discrimination in the workplace.

Am I Being Discriminated Against at Work?

Discrimination laws govern how an employer or potential employer can interact with you from the very first moment that a relationship is established between you and the company. Discrimination can occur even if you are not yet an employee of the company. Being turned away from an interview or having your application declined because of reasons other than your qualifications might constitute unfair pre-employment treatment.

Discrimination can occur in a number of forms. It includes, but is not limited to:

Biased recruiting, interviewing, and hiring
Unfair or unequal benefits during employment
Unfair transfers, promotions, and firings
Harassment
Threats
Withholding of pay, benefits and opportunities

What are the Workplace Retaliation Laws for Discrimination?

Employees are also protected from discrimination based on their participation in certain activities. In the same way that you cannot be discriminated against due to your age, race, or gender, an employer cannot fire you, or refuse promotion if you take place in:

Complaining about discrimination
Threatening to file a discrimination complaint
Protesting or picketing against a discriminatory act done by the employer
Taking part in or cooperating with an investigation by the EEOC

What to Do If You Feel Discriminated Against at Work

Many people know immediately if discrimination took place, whether it is an employer giving a suspicious reason for firing somebody or attacking a legally protected class (race, gender, religion, etc.).

However, some discrimination is more subtle. We can help you determine if discrimination has occurred, and if so, how best to resolve the situation. The first meeting with us is free, so there is absolutely no risk in asking questions and exploring your options. Contact discrimination attorneys today to make sure that you are working in a free and equal workplace.