The United States has strict laws in place to prevent workplace discrimination at every stage of employment, whether you are a job applicant or a longstanding employee. As any attorney will tell you, however, one issue with workplace discrimination is that it’s often much more subtle than you might think. Beware these less obvious indicators that you are not being given equal chances on the job.

3 Indicators of Workplace Discrimination

1. Unseemly Questions

Whether it’s during a job interview or a performance review, be wary of obscure, inappropriate, or irrelevant questions. Examples could range from “Who will be looking after your kids while you are at work?” to “Are you married?” Your race, place of origin, sexual orientation, religion, age, family status, disability, or financial situation all are off limits in these discussions.

2. Unequal Handling Among Employees

Say you show up to work late and are docked pay as a result—while your coworker shows up late and simply gets a talking-to. Such disparate disciplinary decisions are actually discrimination. All employees should be treated equally. The same is true for promotions. If workers are segregated in any way in their tasks based on race, age, religion, gender or another protected class, it is not legal.

3. Failure to Provide Appropriate Workspaces

Whether you are religious and request a quiet space to allow for prayer at mid-day, or you need to use a wheelchair and request a ramp be installed to accommodate this, the law requires your employer to make reasonable accommodations to protect workers’ religious beliefs and disabilities. Failing to do so can be discrimination.

When to See an Attorney

First, talk to your superior about the behavior. Make sure to do this in writing, as well as verbally. Take note of any measures they take to stop the offending behavior and document any abuse going forwards. If you feel the actions taken were insufficient, consider going to HR. If the behavior does not stop, it’s time to see an attorney.

For help in Bolivar, MO, trust Kirksey Law Firm LLC. These professionals can asses your case and let you know whether it’s worth pursuing legal action. Find out more about their team and practice areas, from family law to medical malpractice, online. To request a consultation with an attorney, call (417) 326-4529.