Residents of Houston and other parts of Texas may want to read more about how individuals who are deaf or hearing-impaired may encounter discrimination as an employee. This discrimination may be open, or it may be more subtle.
Not knowing enough about deafness, an employer might think that a deaf employee needs an interpreter at all times and so chooses not to hire or promote them. There are certain things that you as a job seeker can do to combat unfair treatment at work.
Applying for a job for the deaf applicant
Some deaf applicants use personal relay systems and include those phone numbers on their job applications. This allows for immediate communication, and you do not have to mention that you are deaf on the resume.
Discrimination may be a violation of ADA
The Americans with Disability Act states that as long as an employee can do the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, they are qualified. In addition, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or EEOC, is a government agency that is there to protect your rights in the job search as well as after a company hires you for the job.
Filing with the EEOC
If you are being treated unfairly because of your disability, you must file a charge of discrimination before you can file a lawsuit as stated by the EEOC. You will have 180 days to file a charge of discrimination from the day it happened. Filing online and by mail are options.
You can also go in person to an EEOC field office to make a claim. and they will contact a field office for you.
Mediation or investigation is next. Investigation might reveal an issue for an employment law attorney to take to court.
If you feel that there is discrimination based on your ability to hear or another condition, it may be wise to consult an attorney with experience in this type of law. A lawyer may help you make sure that the company hears your voice.