Losing your job is not only a threat to your financial well-being, but it could also compromise your future job opportunities. Your termination is particularly concerning if you think that this decision is related in some way to your race. Racial discrimination in the workplace in any form is inexcusable and illegal, and you have the right to speak up if you believe your employer acted in a way that was discriminatory.
The civil justice system provides a way for employees to hold employers and other parties accountable for discrimination in the workplace. In order to have a successful claim, you will need to be able to prove that you experienced discriminatory treatment, so it is helpful to know how you can build a strong case. Knowing what race discrimination looks like can help you understand if you are a victim and how you can develop a successful claim.
What counts as race discrimination?
There are several ways one could experience race discrimination in the workplace. It includes any type of negative treatment experienced by an employee on the basis of his or her race or skin color. You may be a victim of this type of discrimination if you have experienced the following in your place of work:
- Your prospective employer asked about your race during your interview.
- A less-qualified employee received a promotion or opportunity over you.
- You believe your employer made decisions regarding termination and layoffs on the basis of race.
- You have experienced inappropriate jokes and comments about your race or skin color from others in your workplace.
- You receive fewer benefits and opportunities than your white co-workers.
It is not always easy to prove that what you experienced is race discrimination. It is in your interests to document all of the experiences you have at your place of work that are inappropriate and illegal. It is also helpful to keep track of anyone who may be a witness in a potential discrimination lawsuit.
Start protecting your interests
Experiencing discrimination at work is not something you must endure alone. You have the right to speak up, bringing attention to the fact that your employer is engaging in or allowing illegal practices in your workplace. If you believe you could have a valid claim, you may want to start by learning about your options and what legal recourse could be available to you.
