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Understanding workplace discrimination

Texas employees receive certain protections under state and federal law. Unfortunately, since workplace discrimination is such a far-reaching concept, many employees continue to face the issues caused by employment discrimination. One of the most effective ways for employees to protect themselves is to understand what employment discrimination is.

What is workplace discrimination?

According to federal employment law, employment discrimination refers to any type of mistreatment of an employee based on:

  • Race
  • Gender
  • Retaliation
  • Age
  • Disability
  • Medical conditions
  • Sexual orientation

These rules stem from the Civil Rights Act of 1964. However, studies indicate that 29% of American employees report witnessing at least one instance of discrimination in the workplace.

What workplace discrimination is not

When employees deal with a boss who berates them and makes their jobs harder, they may throw the term “discrimination” around incorrectly. Some bosses lack the necessary people skills to excel in their roles, but that doesn’t mean they discriminate. Not receiving a raise or promotion you believe you earned is not necessarily an example of employment discrimination.

Are you a victim of workplace discrimination?

Before you claim that you are a victim of employment discrimination, consider the criteria outlined by the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you believe that your employer is pushing you out of your job based on your age, you may have grounds for a discrimination claim. Additionally, if you have valid concerns that you don’t receive fair treatment based on gender, sexual orientation or a medical condition, you may be a victim.

Workplace discrimination is a problem that impacts all employees, even those who aren’t dealing with the discrimination personally. When left unchecked, workplace discrimination can potentially create a toxic work environment for everyone.