When you find a job you’re passionate about, you want to perform to the best of your ability and receive recognition for your efforts. However, as a woman, you may have to deal with the unsettling but very real issue of gender discrimination in the workplace. In addition to the psychological damage it does, gender discrimination can also get in way of your goals and may even result in unlawful termination. To learn more about this serious issue and how to handle it, consider the following guide.

Examples of Gender Discrimination in the Workplace

Gender discrimination is a civil rights violation defined as the unequal treatment of an individual based on their gender or sex. This includes, but is not limited to, sexual harassment.

You can face gender discrimination during the interview process — for instance, if you’re turned down because the company’s clients are used to working with men. If you’re laid off due to budget reductions and your male coworkers stay on the team, this could also be grounds for a gender discrimination case.

You could even be a victim of this discrimination if you are denied a promotion, benefits, or a raise because of your gender. Of course, sexual misconduct such as unwanted physical advances, quid pro quo offers, and the threat of being punished for failing to offer a sexual favor also fall under this umbrella.

What You Should Do if You Believe You Have a Case

If you believe you are being treated unfairly due to your gender, it’s important to start documenting the injustice. Take notes after the encounter or event while it’s fresh in your mind and ask friends or coworkers if they’ve experienced similar situations. If your company has a human resources department, report the situation to them through a written document. If you’re fired, demoted, or otherwise punished for reporting the issue, it will constitute an additional case of gender discrimination. 

If you’d like to file a lawsuit, find a lawyer who specializes in employment rights or unlawful termination. They can help you arrange the details of your case and file a formal complaint with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). From there, you can decide whether to file the suit in federal or state court. 

To speak with an attorney who can help you fight for compensation after unlawful termination or another form of gender discrimination, get in touch with MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. of Middletown, NY. Since 1885, they’ve established a reputation as passionate litigators that personalize every case to their unique clients. Whether you’re an individual or a business, you can trust their attorneys to fight for your rights in a range of areas, including real estate and criminal law. To learn more about their practice areas, visit their website. You can also call (845) 343-3000 to speak with them about your unlawful termination.