While much progress has been made in terms of combating discrimination, it is still a widespread issue in the American workplace. At least half of the U.S. workforce have reported either witnessing or facing some form of discrimination at work.
Generally, discrimination occurs in two ways. It can be either direct or indirect. Outlined below are some examples of both types of discrimination.
Direct discrimination
Direct discrimination occurs when one person or a group is treated negatively due to protected characteristics. This can happen while employed or while applying for a job. Direct discrimination can also occur in different ways. It could be paying people of a certain background less than co-workers. It could be denying a particular ethnic group promotion opportunities. Or, it could be refusing to employ workers who follow a certain religion.
In serious cases, direct discrimination can even cross the line into harassment. An individual could be verbally or physically abused because of protected characteristics.
Indirect discrimination
Indirect discrimination is less blatant, and it can be well-hidden, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t damaging for those on the receiving end. Indirect discrimination often involves workplace policies that apply to everyone. However, those policies only adversely impact people of certain backgrounds.
For example, an employer may implement a dress code that stipulates nobody is to wear any type of head covering. The policy applies to everyone, but only negatively impacts those who wear religious head coverings.
Both direct and indirect discrimination are serious issues, and they are unlawful. To protect your rights as an employee, it may be beneficial to seek legal guidance.