Racial discrimination happens when you’re treated differently than others just because of your color or race. Thanks to federal law, you are protected against this kind of discrimination. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always stop people from being racist.
Title VII of the Civil Right Act of 1964 is what protects you against discrimination from employers. Thanks to this act, employers may not discriminate against you due to your race when they make decisions regarding:
- Hiring
- The distribution of benefits
- Promotions
- Job training
- Discipline
- Compensation
- Firing
- Or any other privilege, condition or term of your employment with them.
You are protected from the time you apply onward. Job applicants and current workers can both seek support if they have been discriminated against.
Did you know that there are two kinds of racial discrimination?
Racial discrimination can come in two forms. The first is disparate treatment, when you are treated differently because of your race. The other is disparate impact, which is the negative impact that discrimination based on your race has on you. This could include things like having unnecessary dress code requirements that affect African Americans more than White Americans, for example.
You may not be discriminated against as a result of your association with people of other races, your membership in ethnic-based groups or organizations or because you go to school or a place of worship that is associated with a minority.
If you do face discrimination in the workplace, know that there is help available for you. No one should have to go through discrimination and the pain that it can cause. Our website has more information if you’re interested in making a claim.