It is illegal for your employer to discriminate against you based on your age, gender, religion, race or other protected characteristics. As a victim of workplace discrimination, you can file a discrimination charge against your employer and may be entitled to compensation for any related damages. However, it is easier said than done.
Proving workplace discrimination is no easy feat. Without sufficient proof, it is your word against your employer’s, and it may be hard to present a solid case. It helps to have proper evidence to support your claims, some of which are listed below.
Communication records
While employers may be wary not to make direct discriminatory statements, it is wise to preserve any correspondence between you and your employer. Emails, texts, voicemails or other communication records can help refute unfounded allegations or prove a pattern of discrimination or harassment.
Performance reports
Your employer may claim that they dismissed or demoted you for failing to meet expectations, yet your performance reports state otherwise. Therefore, it helps to have performance reports or documentation that indicate otherwise to disprove such assertions.
Witness testimony
Statements from colleagues who may have witnessed your employer’s misconduct can also go a long way. When a third-party substantiates your version of events, it will lend more credibility to your case.
Medical records
You may have sought mental health treatment or counseling or even developed conditions like high blood pressure due to stress at your workplace arising from the discrimination. It is worthwhile to have such medical reports nearby, just in case.
Are you a victim of workplace discrimination?
Various laws protect your worker’s rights at the state and federal levels. If you are a victim of discrimination at your job, you should not sit back and let it run its course. Learning more about what you can do to hold your employer accountable will help protect your interests.