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Racial discrimination in the workplace happens when an employee is treated unfairly because of their race or ethnicity. It can appear in hiring, promotions, pay, or even how someone is treated at work. Unfortunately, this kind of discrimination is illegal, but it still happens in workplaces in Connecticut and around the country..
If you’re facing racial discrimination at work, you have rights. Both federal and state laws protect employees from this kind of unfair treatment. This blog explains those protections and steps you can take to defend your rights and hold your employer accountable.
Federal Law Prohibits Racial Discrimination
Federal law protects employees from racial discrimination. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) makes it illegal for employers to treat employees unfairly based on their race, color, or national origin in all aspects of employment, including hiring, firing, promotions, wages, and job assignments.
The law applies to employers with 15 or more employees, including private businesses, government agencies, and labor organizations. If you file a complaint about racial discrimination, your employer cannot retaliate by firing or demoting you.
Title VII also considers workplace harassment an illegal form of discrimination. Racial jokes, slurs, or other offensive conduct can create a hostile work environment, which is illegal.
If you believe you’ve experienced racial discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC investigates claims and can take action if your employer violated the law.
Connecticut’s Anti-Discrimination Law
The Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA) works in conjunction with federal protections but has some unique features that provide broader coverage. Key points about CFEPA include:
- Unlike federal law, CFEPA covers employers with 3 or more employees, meaning more workplaces are subject to these rules.
- It prohibits discrimination based on race or ethnicity in all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotions, wages, training, and firing.
- Employees can file complaints with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights, which investigates discrimination claims and can help seek remedies.
CFEPA also protects employees from retaliation if they report or oppose discriminatory practices. The law also allows employees who experience racial discrimination, harassment, and retaliation to file a civil lawsuit in state court.
How To Protect Your Employment Rights
If you experience racial discrimination at work, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and build a case:
- Document everything: Keep a record of discriminatory incidents, including dates, times, and what was said or done. Note who was involved and if there were any witnesses.
- Report internally: File a complaint with your company’s Human Resources (HR) department. Follow any internal procedures your company has for addressing discrimination.
- Stay professional: While frustrating, continue to perform your job duties and avoid reacting in ways that could be used against you.
- Consult an employment lawyer: An attorney can assess your situation, explain your rights, and explore your legal options.
These steps can help protect your job and hold your employer accountable for discriminatory behavior.
How An Employment Lawyer Can Help
It takes an experienced employment lawyer to help you fight back against racial discrimination at work. They can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and represent you if you need to file an administrative claim or a civil lawsuit. If you’re facing racial discrimination at work, don’t wait to get help. Contact Mitchell, Sheahan & Slippen, P.C. today for legal advice and support. We will handle all the details, guide you through the process, and protect your rights at every step.
Mitchell, Sheahan & Slippen, P.C., based in Stratford, CT, serves clients in Stratford, Fairfield County, New Haven County, Greenwich, Danbury, White Plains, and NY.