7 Ways to Respond to Employment Discrimination

Any employer will be anxious when faced with harassment and discrimination complaints. It is mainly because such complaints can lead to government investigations, workplace tension, and costly legal battles. Even so, how do you deal with employment discrimination as an employee? At Atkerson Law, employment discrimination lawyer Dan A. Atkerson discusses the best ways employees can deal with discrimination in the workplace. 

For over 35 years, he has been fighting against employee discrimination, wrongful termination, and harassment for employees around Dallas suburbs such as Allen, TX. Here are some of the top ways employees can use to respond to employment discrimination:

Keep Track of Examples

The first thing you need to do is jot down all the details and specifics of when you were discriminated against. The journal will come in handy when you decide to file a complaint with your company, employer, or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Talk to Witnesses

It is possible that one or two people might have witnessed the discrimination at some point. Have talks with your coworkers to find out what they know. Most importantly, ensure that you are as specific as possible to help you take note of the minor details. 

Details such as time and date are critical in proving your case. Also, let your witnesses know you want to file a complaint and avail themselves where necessary. 

Notify Your Employer

The second thing should be to inform your employer. There is a good chance they might not know what you are going through unless you tell them.

Note that although employers are responsible for providing a workplace that meets the required standards of the law, it is up to the employee to ensure that their rights are safeguarded. 

Let Your Employer Investigate and Write a Report

Besides notifying your employer, you should also let them know that your issue deserves their full attention. They should find ways to investigate and write a report every time you are discriminated against. 

According to federal law, employers must investigate discrimination cases and take proper actions. 

Gather Hard Evidence

You need hard evidence to prove the allegations. Otherwise, it might be hard to prove your case if you have nothing to show. Look for objects you were given or text messages, emails, pictures, or social media posts. 

Regardless of how hard it might be to hold on to content that might be highly upsetting and offensive, it is critical to have physical evidence that proves your case. It will prove much easier to argue your case with physical evidence than trying to describe an image, for example, to the EEOC or discrimination attorney. 

Contact the EEOC or a Discrimination Lawyer

What if your employer does not respond to your reported act of discrimination? You can opt to file a charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). You can also contact a discrimination attorney to help you draft the charges and fight for your rights in court.

A knowledgeable discrimination attorney should tell you that there are high chances that you might be terminated. They should also advise you not to make rash decisions such as quitting your job.

Reference a Copy of the Employee Handbook

Finally, you need to take a look at your employer's anti-description policy in your handbook, and it will come in handy when proving your case during negotiations or in court.

Get Professional Help From an Employment Discrimination Lawyer

Discrimination and harassment are, without a doubt, some of the most common issues in our workplaces today. Luckily, it is possible to fight for your rights through a legal channel. The above steps will help you respond to discrimination cases and ensure you get the justice you deserve. 

Are you looking for an employment discrimination lawyer? Contact us online, give us a call at (214) 383-3606, or visit our offices in Dallas, TX, to schedule a free consultation with Dan, A. Atkerson.