How to Report Racial Discrimination at Work

/

Racial discrimination in the workplace is a serious matter that violates both federal and state laws. If you’re experiencing unequal treatment, harassment, or retaliation because of your race, you have the right to take action. Reporting such misconduct not only protects your rights but can also help create a safer and fairer workplace for everyone.

The state of Tennessee adheres to federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits workplace discrimination based on race. Additionally, Tennessee's Human Rights Act provides further protections. Reporting racial discrimination involves understanding your rights, gathering evidence, and following established procedures. Whether you’re dealing with overt racism or subtle discriminatory practices, addressing the situation promptly is crucial.

While the process may seem intimidating, there are clear steps you can take to report racial discrimination at work. From filing an internal complaint to engaging with external agencies, there are multiple pathways available to ensure your concerns are heard.

Understanding Racial Discrimination in the Workplace

Racial discrimination in the workplace can take many forms, from being passed over for promotions to enduring offensive comments or exclusionary behavior. The law protects workers from two primary types of discrimination: disparate treatment and disparate impact. Disparate treatment involves intentional discrimination, such as being denied a job because of your race. Disparate impact, on the other hand, refers to policies that may seem neutral but disproportionately harm people of a specific race.

Examples of racial discrimination include:

  • Being assigned less favorable shifts or tasks because of your race.
  • Receiving unjustified poor performance evaluations compared to coworkers.
  • Experiencing racial slurs, jokes, or offensive gestures.
  • Facing retaliation after complaining about discriminatory treatment.

Understanding what constitutes discrimination can help you identify whether your experience meets the legal criteria for a violation. If it does, you have several options to take action.

Steps to Report Racial Discrimination at Work

Document Everything

The first step in addressing racial discrimination is gathering evidence. Accurate documentation strengthens your case and provides a clear record of events.

Here’s a look at how you can document this behavior:

  • Keep a detailed record of incidents, including dates, times, locations, and the people involved.
  • Save any emails, text messages, or written communications that show discriminatory behavior.
  • Note any witnesses who may have observed the behavior or treatment.

By maintaining thorough documentation, you can establish a pattern of behavior that supports your complaint.

File an Internal Complaint

Most companies have internal procedures for reporting workplace discrimination. Check your employee handbook or consult your HR department to learn how to file a formal complaint.

When submitting your complaint:

  • Clearly explain the discriminatory behavior, providing examples and supporting documentation.
  • Request a written response from HR to track the status of your complaint.
  • Follow up as necessary to ensure your concerns are being addressed.

Filing an internal complaint demonstrates that you attempted to resolve the issue through your workplace’s processes.

Contact an Employment Lawyer

If the issue remains unresolved, or if you’re uncomfortable reporting the discrimination internally, consult with an employment lawyer for legal assistance. They can help you engage with your employer or with the appropriate government entity that handles workplace discrimination complaints.

We at Donati Law, PLLC can offer such legal support, and we may be able to help you reach an agreeable resolution to this unfortunate situation. Should you wish to discuss your claim in further detail, reach out to us at any time to request a consultation.

Contact Donati Law, PLLC for legal assistance for your employment-related dispute.

Every Client is a Cause We Believe In

To discuss your case with an accomplished attorney who cares, give our firm a call at (901) 209-5500 or fill out the form below.

  • Please enter your name.
  • This isn't a valid email address.
    Please enter your email.
  • This isn't a valid phone number.
    Please enter your phone number.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.