One of the most important roles for an employer is taking steps that will create a workplace for all employees that is respectful and safe. A critical aspect of this process is implementing strategies that help prevent all types of discrimination in the workplace. It is helpful for all North Carolina employees to understand what laws protect them, what actions count as discriminatory and how they can take action if they are the victim of this type of mistreatment.
Know what counts as discrimination
Workplace discrimination includes any type of unfavorable treatment that occurs due to a protected characteristic. There are both state and federal laws that protect against discrimination, and discrimination does not have to take place in an office building to count as workplace discrimination. In some cases, workplace discrimination takes place in the form of major actions, such as termination or other types of discipline.
However, discrimination can also occur in the form of more subtle events. Actions such as denial of a deserved promotion, unwanted remarks, reduction of hours and more could also be the result of discrimination. Employees can experience this type of treatment because of age, gender, sexual identity, religious background and other reasons.
The rights of victims
Victims of discrimination in North Carolina workplaces do not have to remain silent. These individuals have the right to speak out about what they experienced, seeking to hold the responsible parties accountable. It may be helpful to speak with an experienced attorney regarding legal options as soon as possible to learn how to move forward and protect one’s rights.