There is a kind of pain that lingers in the walls of an office, invisible yet suffocating. A pain woven into each denied promotion, each sneer masked as a joke, each time your name is overlooked for a project. It is the quiet erosion of dignity, the slow unraveling of self-worth, the bitter taste of workplace discrimination. Yet, this is not a shame to be swallowed, nor a burden to carry in silence. This is life, and in life, we fight—for respect, for fairness, for what is rightfully ours. Is your employer discriminating against you? Let’s find out.
Many employees endure unfair treatment in silence, fearful of retaliation or job loss. But recognizing red flags is the first step to protecting your rights. Below are seven major red flags that indicate you may be experiencing workplace discrimination—and what you can do about it.
1. Unequal Pay for the Same Position
One of the most blatant and common forms of employment discrimination is unequal pay. If you and other employees perform the same job duties, but your paycheck is lower due to your gender identity, national origin, race, or any other protected characteristic, this is wage discrimination.
What the Law Says:
Under federal and state laws, the Equal Pay Act mandates that male and female employees in the same position must receive equal compensation for equal work. Additionally, employment law prohibits pay disparities based on protected group status.
Warning Signs:
You discover that a co-worker in the same position earns more despite having similar qualifications.
Your employer refuses to discuss salary discrepancies.
You’re denied overtime pay while others receive it.
If you suspect wage theft or wage discrimination, consult a law firm like Bourassa Law Group to help you report workplace discrimination and seek compensation.
2. Biased Hiring Process and Job Interview Discrimination
If an employer rejects you for a job because of your physical appearance, disability, sexual orientation, age, or veteran status, consider it a major red flag as they may be discriminating against you.
What the Law Says:
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) ensures fair hiring practices. Discrimination during the hiring process based on protected characteristics is illegal under federal law.
Common Signs of Hiring Discrimination:
A hiring manager asks inappropriate questions about your marital status, gender identity, or national origin.
- An employer repeatedly overlooks a qualified candidate from a protected group.
The company consistently hires certain employees while excluding others.
If you experience bias in a job interview, document it and seek legal guidance.
3. Unjust Poor Performance Reviews and Job Termination
A sudden influx of poor performance reviews without valid reasons can signal employment discrimination. Worse, it might lead to wrongful termination.
What the Law Says:
Employers cannot fire or discipline workers based on protected characteristics. A sudden shift in how your job performance is evaluated, especially after reporting concerns, could indicate retaliation.
Red Flags:
You receive poor reviews after refusing to participate in unethical practices.
Your workload increases disproportionately, setting you up for failure.
You’re fired after filing a complaint with human resources.
If you suspect wrongful termination, seek a free consultation with a legal expert.
4. A Hostile or Toxic Work Environment
If your workplace fosters fear, discomfort, or exclusion, you may be in a toxic work environment—a breeding ground for discriminatory behavior.
What the Law Says:
A hostile work environment is illegal under federal and state laws. Employers must ensure a safe environment for all workers.
Major Red Flags:
You frequently hear derogatory comments, racial slurs, or discriminatory language from co-workers or management.
You’re excluded from meetings, events, and networking opportunities.
Your complaints to the human resources department are ignored.
A law firm like Bourassa Law Group can help you navigate employment law and fight for justice.
5. Denial of Promotions and Career Growth Opportunities
If you’re repeatedly passed over for promotions despite excellent job performance, discriminatory practices could be at play.
What the Law Says:
Federal regulations, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, prohibit discrimination in promotions.
Warning Signs:
Less qualified co-workers are promoted while you’re overlooked.
Your employer gives vague reasons for your stagnation.
You’re told that your protected characteristic makes you “not a good fit.”
If you’ve hit a ceiling due to workplace discrimination, consult an employment attorney.
6. Sexual Harassment and Verbal Harassment
Sexual harassment and verbal harassment create an unsafe work environment and are illegal.
What the Law Says:
The EEOC classifies unwanted advances, lewd comments, and verbal abuse as illegal under federal law.
Major Red Flags:
Unwanted touching, inappropriate jokes, or pressure for dates.
Discriminatory language targeting gender identity or sexual orientation.
Your complaints are dismissed by human resources.
If you are experiencing sexual harassment, document incidents and seek legal support immediately.
7. Retaliation for Reporting Discrimination
Many employees fear speaking up because they anticipate retaliation. If you experience mistreatment after reporting illegal discrimination, this is unlawful.
What the Law Says:
It is illegal under federal law to retaliate against an employee for reporting discrimination.
Warning Signs:
You’re demoted or reassigned after filing a complaint.
Your workload suddenly changes to create undue hardship.
You are pushed toward quitting or forced into a new job that is lower in status.
If you are facing retaliation, contact us and let us help you report workplace discrimination.
Fight Back Against Workplace Discrimination
Discrimination should never be tolerated, no matter how subtle or overt. If you recognize any of these red flags, take action. You have legal rights under federal and state laws to fight against employment discrimination.
What You Can Do:
Document Everything – Keep records that prove your employer was discriminating against you.
Report to Human Resources – Inform the human resources department in writing.
Seek Legal Counsel – A skilled employment attorney can protect you from job termination and ensure you receive justice.
At Bourassa Law Group, we are committed to fighting for employees who are experiencing discrimination in the workplace. If you believe you have been subjected to unfair treatment, don’t wait. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us help you reclaim your dignity and rights.
You deserve a workplace free from discrimination. We’ll fight to make sure you get it.
1-800-870-8910