Workplace Discrimination is an unfortunate practice encompassing many types of behaviors. Any unfair treatment of employees based on their sexual identity, religious beliefs, ethnic background, or personal characteristics can be considered workplace discrimination. This may involve firing, demoting, bullying, and harassing behavior. 

Federal and state laws, such as the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD), are designed to protect workers and hold employers accountable for discrimination.

Employees throughout New Jersey should know how to identify the most common types of workplace discrimination. If you think you’ve been the victim of workplace discrimination, you should consult with an employment lawyer to learn more about how you can file a claim.

1. Age Discrimination

Age discrimination is when an employer uses an individual’s age as an excuse to fire, demote, or otherwise not hire them.

Many cases involve older adults being denied jobs or promotions due to their advanced age. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employers cannot use age to discriminate against anyone in the workplace. When an employer posts age requirements for a job or engages in age-based bias, you can file a complaint.

Bullying or harassing someone based on age can be considered workplace age discrimination.

2. Race Discrimination

Sadly, race continues to be one of the most common types of workplace discrimination throughout New Jersey and the United States.

No employer can deny you a job based on your race, skin color, ethnic background, or place of origin. When an employer engages in racism, they can be held legally accountable.

Suppose that you suspect you’ve been the victim of racial discrimination in the workplace. In that case, you have various options to submit a formal complaint to state and federal authorities and even file a lawsuit in court.

3. Disability Discrimination

The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) officially outlawed discrimination against qualified workers who present any disability. Additionally, employers must make reasonable accommodations for disabled workers to perform their duties. 

Failure to comply with ADA provisions can result in a legal claim against an employer.

4. Religious Discrimination

Religious freedom is protected under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and workplace discrimination focused on an individual’s religious preference is against the law.

You should consult with an employment law attorney when an employer harasses you based on your religious choice or fails to make certain religious accommodations for holidays, religious observances, clothing, and even dietary restrictions.

5. Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Discrimination

Even in 1964, when the Civil Rights Act was passed, legislators understood the importance of gender identity. Under federal and state laws, an employer cannot engage in any type of discrimination based on a person’s gender.

Additionally, employers may not use sexual orientation to target, bully, or harass a worker. When workplace policies mention or consider any gender or sexual identity, this practice is likely illegal and can result in a complaint or lawsuit.

6. Pregnancy Discrimination

Unfortunately, many expecting mothers deal with various forms of discrimination and bias in the workplace. 

Pregnancy is a delicate time in any woman’s life, and employers must ensure that adequate provisions are met for pregnant workers. Failure to provide different types of medical leave, work assignments for safety, and time off can be considered discrimination.

The LAD and the Pregnancy Discrimination Act cover many protections for expecting mothers. 

Workplace Discrimination Attorney in New Jersey

Workplace discrimination comes in all shapes and sizes. Often, discrimination can be subtle. Other times, it can be right in your face. Regardless, discrimination in the workplace is illegal. 

If you’ve been the victim of workplace discrimination in New Jersey, consult with a dedicated employment lawyer. NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC represents workplace discrimination and harassment cases across the state. Consult with us today.

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