Workplace discrimination should be a thing of the past, but unfortunately, it persists, due in part to ignorance. The more overt forms of discrimination affect not only minorities but the woman and those of different sexual and gender orientations. Even individuals identifying with alternative subcultures may experience workplace discrimination. Fortunately, there are institutions to help victims of workplace discrimination.
The problem though is that all too often victims of discrimination remain silent for fear of making the situation worse for themselves. While anyone who has been on the receiving end can sympathise with this, it is not the socially responsible approach to take. In reality, standing up for yourself sets a precedent for others to follow your lead, and may mitigate discrimination for the next individual.
Seeking Support
You are entitled to fairness and equality, and should not have to endure being subjected to discrimination in any form. It may, however, be challenging to stand up against it alone. This is why you must have a support system outside of your working environment.
Many support groups may assist and bolster you emotionally. Your family is also an essential resource for support. The steps to follow may not be easy to endure, and this support structure will be invaluable in keeping your spirit up.
The Initial Step
It is usually best not to seek support from your work peers. This has a nasty way of backfiring and may end up undermining your case. It would help if you instead approached HR as a first measure. Even if you do not have any confidence that HR will resolve the issue, this step will count in your favour should you move on to legal action.
Not approaching HR may count against you as this would mention a disregard for proper procedure. Make sure to write down your account and argument of grievance before this meeting, making sure that you have a clear and concise explanation.
Internal Hearings And Attempts At Reparation
Should your grievance be taken to heart; a meeting between yourself and any offending parties may be arranged. In this meeting, it is critical that you once again state your case clearly and concisely. You may be nervous to speak about your grievances directly to the offending parties, but refraining from it may come across as backtracking and invalidate your complaint.
If you fear further abuse because of this meeting and its results, keep in mind that this should serve as an official warning to the offending parties, and new transgression should by law result in their dismissal.
If You Receive No Assistance From Within The Company
If there are no measures taken in response to your complaints, your fundamental rights are being violated. It is imperative that you remain focussed and do not become despondent to the situation. Under these circumstances, many people resign, but by doing so, the offending party wins, getting off scot-free for their transgressions.
You cannot be dismissed or in any way punished for taking legal action against the offender(s) and the company who ignores your plea for assistance. It should be noted that once this process takes place if there is sufficient evidence in your favour, the company will most likely try to negotiate to avoid a public legal proceeding.
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