Reporting discrimination in your workplace can be difficult. Will your coworkers be resentful toward you? Will reporting your experience fix the problem, or will it make your situation worse? Most of all, will you find yourself out of a job if you file a report?
The law protects you and your job.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who report discrimination, harassment and other issues. This means that the law protects you from being demoted or fired as a result of filing a discrimination claim.
While most employers understand this, some may attempt to use other reasons to cover up their retaliation. For example, if an employee with a disability requested reasonable accommodation, an employer may claim that they fired that employee because they were unable to perform the duties of the job. This type of retaliation is more difficult to prove than more overt forms of punishment, but the law prohibits it just like other forms of retaliation.
Even if your employer does not fire you, they may retaliate against you in other ways. Denying you a promotion or prohibiting you from receiving fair pay are other forms of retaliation that can have long-lasting effects on your career.
Do not let fear of retaliation keep you from protecting your rights.
When you have been the victim of discrimination, it is important to report your experiences. Not only does this give you the opportunity to change your work environment, it can also help future employees avoid the harassment you have experienced. It is just as important to fight back if you are wrongfully terminated after reporting.
Speak to an attorney if you believe that your employer may act against you. They can help you document your experiences and fight back against both the discrimination you have suffered and against the illegal retaliation.