In an ideal world, every workplace should have a culture with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as one of the core founding principles. Unfortunately, many employees continue to face workplace discrimination for different reasons, even in the golden age of representation.
The illegal practice continues to claim more victims in every major city in Colorado, causing victims to experience stress and anxiety, which can affect productivity, performance, and overall mental health. Workplace discrimination can also impact any organization’s reputation and employee morale.
In this post, we’ll explore the different types of workplace discrimination, so you can take the required legal action to protect your employment rights and get maximum compensation for damages.
Workplace Discrimination Explained
Workplace discrimination is any behavior in work environments specifically targeting employees based on personal attributes instead of professional merits, including but not limited to:
- Race
- Gender
- Size
- Age
- Religion, etc.
Regardless of what US state the organization is in, workplace discrimination is illegal at any touchpoint of the employment process, from recruitment to training, daily operations, and termination.
The Four Most Common Types of Workplace Discrimination in Colorado
1. Racial Discrimination
Racial discrimination is the practice of judging and treating an individual unfairly or unfavorably due to their nationality, ethnicity, or race. It can manifest in many ways in modern organizations, including (but not limited to):
- Racial slurs
- Promotion/Appraisal denial
- Biased recruitment
- Hostile work environment, etc.
If you’ve been racially abused at your workplace, you can sue your employer for damages based on Civil Rights Act violations of 1964.
2. Sex & Gender Discrimination
Sex and gender discrimination is common in many Colorado workplaces. Every day, employees become victims due to unnecessary prejudice based on the following:
- Pregnancy
- Parental responsibilities
- Sexual orientation
- Identifying gender, etc.
For example, firing a pregnant woman in her final trimester due to a maternal leave request is an act of workplace discrimination.
3. Disability Discrimination
Disability discrimination happens when employers deny qualified individuals with disabilities employment, accommodation, workplace security, or promotions. Any practice that encourages unequal treatment and obstacles in the workplace can be the cause of a workplace discrimination lawsuit.
4. Religious Discrimination
Finally, religious discrimination is the illegal practice of treating employees unfavorably or unfairly due to their religious beliefs and practices. Examples include:
- Not hiring individuals due to their religious attire.
- Mocking or criticizing an individual’s faith.
- Not accommodating employees to practice their faith freely, etc.
Contact a Colorado Employee Rights Lawyer Right Away!
If you believe you’ve experienced any type of workplace discrimination, contact the Bourassa Law Group right away. Our Colorado employee rights lawyers will help you take legal action to seek justice and continue to play our role in fostering an inclusive culture where everyone is valued for their talents and performance, regardless of their faith, color, gender, or disability.
Get in touch now for a free consultation at 800-870-8910. We will discuss your case and devise a solid strategy to maximize damage compensation.