Workplace harassment and discrimination are way more common than you think. People suffer discrimination in various forms – right from wrongful termination because of whistleblowing and sexual harassment complaints to discrimination on the basis of age, gender, religion, and race. If discrimination is so rampant, why don’t we hear of as many cases? Here are some key reasons why employees fail to report workplace harassment.
They are unaware of their rights
If you have suffered harassment at work in any form, you should consider talking to an Employment Discrimination Lawyer immediately. Employees fail to take action because they don’t know their rights and never reach out for help. For instance, many workers don’t know that they can file a complaint with the EEOC or report sexual harassment to the company by following the protocols. While you cannot typically sue an employer for firing you in at-will states, you could still go to court for certain circumstances.
They don’t understand if they have a case
It is a common myth that one has to suffer extreme harassment or discrimination to file a complaint. The truth is a lot of employees don’t understand whether they have a valid case in the first place. Thankfully, most law firms that represent employees are open to free consultations, and you can meet an attorney to decide whether you should make the next move. You have the right to seek justice, even when the matter is something as small as a co-worker passing offensive jokes time and again.
They fear retaliation
This is probably one of the most predominant reasons why many employees don’t want to take action, even when they know the wrong. No one wants to lose their job, and because filing a complaint with the EEOC may end in that, they don’t plan to take the chance. However, retaliation itself is unlawful, and no matter what you have complained about, your employer cannot fire you or retaliate in any manner. Retaliation can happen in many forms, including denying a justified promotion or demoting someone because they complained of sexual harassment.
Don’t let any of that happen to you. As an employee, your rights are as necessary, and each time someone takes a step ahead in reporting discrimination, it helps others to come forward. If you think you have a case, talk to an attorney, and discuss your legal options. The first meeting is usually a great point to consider your next move.