5 Ways Employers May Try to Discriminate Against You

Do you feel that your employer may be discriminating against you? The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is there to help safeguard your rights. According to the EEOC, laws forbid employers from treating workers unfairly due to their age, race, religion, disability, sex, or national origin. Guidelines apply to job applicants as well as employees. 

If you suspect that your employer is guilty of unfair practices, you may have many questions. Here are five processes in which an employer or potential employer may illegally discriminate. 

Hiring

This is the first place you may encounter workplace discrimination. Employers may simply deny you a position at their company. If they do so on the basis of the criteria mentioned above, they may be violating the law. 

Accommodations

The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that employers make reasonable accommodations for employees with limitations. You may need a wheelchair ramp or large-print work materials; if your employer refuses to provide them, your employer may be guilty of discrimination. 

Compensation

Employers may not legally pay you less based on your age, national origin, or sex. Companies should offer equal pay to workers doing comparable jobs and equal work. Pay includes wages and other forms of compensation such as bonuses, vacation time, and benefits. 

Promotions

The law states that your employer may not unethically pass you over for promotion if you meet the job requirements and qualify for the position. Denying you a promotion due to your accent, appearance, age or any other protected aspect may be a violation of the law. 

Firing

Companies can terminate employment for many reasons, especially in an “employment-at-will” state such as New York. However, your employer may not let you go unfairly due to such things as your age, gender, sexual orientation, or race.