In the workplace, employees face many different types of rights violations. Sometimes, employers fail to compensate workers properly, while others face sex-based harassment or discrimination because of their age, faith or disability. Unfortunately, many workers continue to endure discrimination on the basis of their racial background, and this mistreatment keeps occurring too often.
It is crucial for employers, managers and staff members to review data on racial discrimination to understand how frequently it occurs and address any unlawful actions appropriately.
Statistics on racial discrimination
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission published data on racial discrimination charges they received in recent years. During fiscal year 2022, the EEOC received 20,992 racial discrimination receipts. This represents a slight increase in comparison to fiscal year 2021, and does not count charges filed with local or state agencies. In fiscal year 2016, the EEOC received over 32,300 receipts of racial discrimination.
Over the course of fiscal year 2022, racial discrimination cases with the EEOC resulted in 19,927 resolutions and $77.7 million in monetary benefits (not counting benefits secured as a result of litigation).
The consequences of racial discrimination
Racial discrimination can result in various consequences for victims as well as firms. Those who experience racial discrimination could face significant emotional hardships such as anxiety and depression. Mistreatment could cause financial problems, especially if it results in a worker becoming fired or quitting, and it can destroy an employee’s confidence and career.
Additionally, racial discrimination can result in serious penalties for employers and shatter the reputation of a business.