Workplace discrimination happens when an employer treats someone unfairly based on personal characteristics that have nothing to do with their job performance. Federal and state laws prohibit this behavior, but it still occurs in many workplaces. Knowing the most common types helps you recognize when it’s happening and understand your rights.
Racial and ethnic discrimination
This type of discrimination involves unfair treatment based on someone’s race, skin color, or ethnic background. It can include racist remarks, biased hiring decisions, or different standards for discipline. Employers may also violate the law by ignoring offensive behavior from coworkers.
Gender and sex discrimination
When employers treat employees differently based on their gender, that’s gender discrimination. This includes unequal pay for the same work, being denied promotions, or being pushed into certain roles because of gender. It also includes discrimination based on pregnancy, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Age discrimination
The law protects workers who are 40 or older from age-based discrimination. Employers may break the law if they pass over older workers for promotions, push them into retirement, or make comments about their age. Age should never be a factor in hiring or firing decisions.
Disability discrimination
Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for workers with disabilities unless doing so would create a hardship. Discrimination occurs when an employer refuses to make changes that would allow a qualified person to do the job, or treats them differently because of a medical condition.
Religious discrimination
Employees have the right to practice their religion without interference at work. This includes wearing religious clothing, observing prayer times, or taking time off for religious holidays. Employers who deny these rights or treat someone differently because of their faith may face legal consequences.
Workplace discrimination takes many forms, but the law protects you from unfair treatment. Recognizing these types of discrimination is the first step toward holding employers accountable.