Everyone deserves respect and equal treatment in the workplace. Unfortunately, workplace discrimination is still a significant issue faced by many employees in Texas. Discrimination occurs when employers treat an employee or job applicant differently based on certain protected characteristics.
It is important to remember that workplace discrimination is against the law no matter what form it takes, and victims have the right to take action.
Discrimination based on race, color or national origin
It is illegal for an employer to treat an employee or job applicant less favorably because of their race, the color of their skin or their country of origin. This type of discrimination can take many forms, from hiring decisions and wage disparity to inappropriate comments or jokes about an individual’s race or nationality.
Discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation
In Texas, employers cannot discriminate against employees or job applicants based on their gender or sexual orientation. Examples include not hiring a qualified female applicant for a traditionally male-dominated role or treating LGBTQ+ employees differently than other employees.
Age discrimination
In Texas, the law protects workers over the age of 40 from age discrimination. An example of this is an employer favoring a younger worker for promotion over an older, more experienced worker.
Disability discrimination
Disability discrimination can include failing to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. For example, not allowing flexible work hours for an employee with a medical condition could constitute disability discrimination.
Religion discrimination
Religion discrimination involves may include denying requests for religious accommodations, such as time off for religious observances.
It is important to recognize discriminatory behaviors and know that they are illegal. If you believe you are facing workplace discrimination, take action by documenting instances of discrimination and reporting them to a supervisor or human resources representative.
