Workplace discrimination remains a serious issue in the United States, despite decades of progress in labor laws and civil rights. If you’ve experienced unfair treatment at work based on your race, gender, religion, age, disability, or other protected characteristics, an employment discrimination attorney can help you stand up for your rights and hold your employer accountable.
What Is Employment Discrimination?
Employment discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably due to characteristics protected under federal and state laws. These characteristics may include:
- Race or ethnicity
- Gender or sex
- Age (40 or older)
- Religion
- Disability
- Pregnancy
- National origin
- Sexual orientation or gender identity
Discrimination can happen in various forms, including hiring, firing, promotions, pay, job assignments, or workplace harassment.
Common Types of Employment Discrimination
| Type of Discrimination | Description |
|---|---|
| Racial Discrimination | Unequal treatment based on race or ethnicity |
| Gender Discrimination | Unfair practices based on gender or sex |
| Age Discrimination | Bias against employees over 40 |
| Disability Discrimination | Failure to provide reasonable accommodations |
| Religious Discrimination | Denial of religious accommodations |
| Retaliation | Punishing employees for asserting their rights |
How an Employment Discrimination Attorney Can Help
Hiring a skilled attorney provides you with legal guidance and improves your chances of a favorable outcome. An employment discrimination lawyer can:
- Review your employment history and gather evidence
- File complaints with government agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
- Negotiate settlements with your employer
- Represent you in mediation or in court, if needed
- Help you recover damages such as back pay, emotional distress, and legal fees
Many attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win.
Signs You May Need an Employment Discrimination Lawyer
Consider consulting a lawyer if:
- You’re being treated differently than colleagues with similar roles
- You’ve been denied promotions or benefits unfairly
- You’ve faced retaliation after reporting a problem
- You’re enduring a hostile work environment based on protected traits
- You’ve been wrongfully terminated for discriminatory reasons
Steps to Take If You’re Facing Discrimination
- Document Everything – Keep records of emails, performance reviews, and incidents.
- Report Internally – File a complaint with your company’s HR department.
- Consult a Lawyer – Don’t sign any severance or agreements without legal review.
- File an EEOC Complaint – Most federal claims require an EEOC complaint first.
- Pursue Legal Action – Your lawyer can file a lawsuit or negotiate a resolution.
Federal Laws That Protect You
Several laws protect employees from discrimination:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – bans discrimination based on race, sex, religion, or national origin
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – prohibits discrimination based on disability
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) – protects workers 40 and older
- Pregnancy Discrimination Act – ensures equal treatment for pregnant employees
- Equal Pay Act – mandates equal pay for equal work
For more details, visit U.S. Department of Labor’s website.
Final Words
Experiencing discrimination in the workplace can be disheartening and isolating. But you’re not alone. An experienced employment discrimination attorney can help you navigate the legal system, restore your dignity, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait. If you feel your rights were violated, take action now. Legal support is available, and justice may be closer than you think.
