Workplace discrimination can be subtle or blatant, but it’s always unacceptable. In Missouri, it’s illegal to treat employees differently based on their race, national origin, gender, religion, disability, HIV/AIDS status, genetics, or age. If you were recently discharged, review some of the most common signs of discrimination here to determine whether you may have been treated unfairly.

What Constitutes Workplace Discrimination?

1. Promotion-Related Favoritism

Promotions that appear unfair or unfounded may point to discrimination. If someone who has experience and seniority is repeatedly denied promotions, there might employer bias based on the person’s protected status.

2. Harassment

Sexual harassment is a widely known form of workplace harassment. However, harassment also includes inappropriate and offensive comments or jokes about religion, race, or age. No worker should feel mocked in the workplace.

3. Workload Imbalances

If an employee continually receives grunt work while others in similar positions get high-paying projects, unfair treatment may be at play. Those with the same job title shouldn’t have to work later than others, either. Clear workload imbalances usually signal discrimination.

4. Demeaning Direct Communication

Managers and directors don’t have the right to use belittling language toward their team members. Any language that can be considered excessively harsh, humiliating, or offensive should not be tolerated. 

Lack of communication can also be considered discriminatory. This might include a manager who doesn’t train a specific employee and refuses to answer only their questions.

An employee who reports workplace discrimination cannot be fired for their report. If you suspect you’ve been a victim of unfair treatment, contact Henry & Williams P.C. in West Plains, MO. With over 60 years of combined experience, the lawyers at this law firm help clients in the region seek the damages they deserve. They provide the support and legal backing required to take on any company. Call (417) 256-8133 to schedule a free consultation or visit them online to read testimonials from past clients.