Understanding Employment Discrimination: Your Rights and Legal Options

Despite laws that prohibit discrimination, countless people still face unfair treatment in the workplace based on factors such as race, gender, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. Recognizing discrimination when it happens is crucial to ensuring equal opportunities and maintaining a fair work environment.

Employment discrimination occurs when an individual is treated unfairly or unequally in the workplace due to characteristics that are protected by law. These characteristics can include, but are not limited to:

• Race

• National Origin

• Gender/Sex

• Sexual Orientation

• Gender Identity

• Pregnancy Status

• Disability Status

• Age

• Religion

• Military/Veteran Status

Examples of discrimination can range from being denied a job or promotion, receiving lower compensation, experiencing harassment, or facing retaliation for reporting discriminatory behavior.

Employees are protected from discrimination under various federal and state laws, including:

1. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

2. Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older from age-based discrimination.

3. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of employment.

4. Pregnancy Discrimination Act: Protects pregnant employees from discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

5. Equal Pay Act: Requires equal pay for equal work performed by men and women.

Additionally, states have their own anti-discrimination laws that provide further protections to employees. In Michigan, for example, many employees are typically covered by the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act or Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act.

If you believe you have been a victim of employment discrimination, it is essential to take action promptly. Steps you can take include:

1. Documenting incidents of discrimination, including dates, times, and witnesses.

2. Reporting the discrimination to your employer through internal grievance procedures, if available.

3. Seeking legal advice from an experienced employment discrimination attorney who can assess your situation and guide you through the legal process.

4. Filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or state fair employment practices agency. It is a good idea to speak with an attorney before filing an EEOC complaint.

5. Pursuing a lawsuit against your employer if informal resolution attempts fail.

Employment law is a highly complex and specialized area. Many factors can affect your potential case. If you believe you have been a victim of employment discrimination, you need experienced attorneys who understand the lay of the land. By understanding your rights and taking proactive steps to address discrimination, you can assert your legal protections and hold accountable those who engage in discriminatory behavior. If you believe you have experienced employment discrimination, don't hesitate to seek legal assistance to protect your rights and seek justice. At Schulz Ghannam PLLC , we are committed to advocating for individuals who have been unjustly treated in the workplace and helping them pursue accountability through the legal system. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.