Racism at Work
When the term racism is spoken, most people think of blatant hatred for those of a different skin color or national origin. This is often the case; some people simply don’t like those of different ethnic background, and they seek to demean or hurt them. However, racism at work often takes on a different tone.
Nearly all race discrimination is much more subtle than it was at Mesa Systems where Hispanic employees were called racial slurs and other derogatory remarks. Generally speaking, race discrimination is done when a person who has a foreign accent is not offered the position, or denied a promotion, because the employer doesn’t like the fact that they sound like they’re not “from here.” But that is not the only form or race discrimination that may result in a lawsuit.
Race Discrimination
Any time a person is not treated fairly at work, for the sole reason that they are of a different national origin, the employer is engaging in race discrimination and breaking the law. Here are the most common forms of race discrimination in the workplace:
Denying Employment– An employer cannot deny employment due to accent, national origin, race, gender, or religion.
Denying Promotions – Likewise, and employer cannot deny promotions due to accent, national origin, race, gender, or religion.
Racial Slurs – Employees have the right to a safe and non-hostile workplace. When a company allows other employees to use racial slurs, the company can be held liable for failing to discipline the abusive employee.
English Fluency – If an employee is not fluent in English, or speak English only, they cannot be denied employment, promotion, or be disciplined for it. The exception is when it materially interferes with their job (such as a salesman in a predominantly English speaking town not being able to speak English). This rule is extended to the individual’s accent as well.
Filing a Race Discrimination Lawsuit
Race discrimination is not something that anyone should have to deal with. It is illegal, and just downright mean to a fellow human. If you have been discriminated against, you can take legal action. Filing a race discrimination lawsuit is not difficult to do, and it all starts with contacting an attorney at .