A contentious work environment can be the result of any number of factors. However, there are times when a level of contention results from underlying tones or acts of discrimination that create a difficult working environment and may possibly lead to termination of an employee. Those in Colorado who may have felt that they were a victim of discrimination, and may have suffered negative consequences as a result of bringing those acts to light, may want to investigate their rights.
One man is deciding whether to pursue legal action after being terminated from a construction job. The man had 20 years of experience when he joined a team of workers at a construction company. He valued the position, as it was an interior job and was more comfortable than outdoor construction work in the winter. Just months into the job, he found a noose and believed it had been deliberately placed and was racially motivated in nature.
The worker took a picture of the noose. The person who had allegedly left it in the tool box to be found by the African-American man was never identified. The worker said a meeting was held to deal with the issue, but the noose was never addressed. The worker was terminated from the job shortly after making the incident public. He also admits to having received warnings for arguments he had with co-workers.
When a person feels that he or she is the victim of racial discrimination or is wrongfully terminated, the quest to prove so in court can be difficult. Any evidence of discrimination, such as the picture of the noose in this case, may be helpful. Colorado workers should also realize that any employment records related to disciplinary records or incidents may be made public if a case is pursued against the employer.
Source: minnesota.cbslocal.com, “Carpenter Alleges Workplace Racism After Finding Noose, Being Fired“, Jennifer Mayerle, April 23, 2015
