Addressing Race Discrimination in California Workplaces: Legal Safeguards for Employees
Harassing or discriminating against employees because of their race and ethnicity is strictly prohibited in California. Both federal and state laws have banned racial discrimination against the applicants and workers of California. If you face this kind of unfortunate event you should seek help under the provisions of California racial discrimination laws. Follow this article to know the details of racial discrimination laws.
What is racial discrimination in the workplace?
Race is an umbrella term that refers to physical characteristics, like skin, hair color, hair texture and styles, eye color, and facial features. If you face unfair treatment from your employer due to your physical characteristics, it will fall under the definition of racial discrimination. Also, if your employer refers to you by your color such as white, black, brown, or red, you have become the victim of racial discrimination.
How am I protected against California racial discrimination?
California Fair Employment and Housing Act prohibits employers with 5 or more employees to discriminate against their employees based on race. You are protected from all types of racial discrimination under FEHA.
What can I do if I face racial discrimination in the workplace?
Make a formal report
You should proceed with immediate legal action if you become a victim of racial discrimination. You do not need to bear the unfair treatment from your employer because of your race or ethnicity. First and foremost, inform your supervisor and then talk to the human resources department. If they fail to resolve your issue, take help from external sources.
Seek legal help from law enforcement agencies
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) deals with federal race discrimination laws. The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) also enforces anti-discrimination laws based on specific protected categories. Race discrimination is one of them. You should make a complaint against your employer with these agencies as immediately as you can. CRD provides a wider range of protection to employees compared to the EEOC. So, many people CRD to the EEOC. When you have completed the formal complaining process, they will investigate your claim and take the necessary steps on your behalf.
Consult an attorney
When you face any unfair treatment in the workplace for your racial identity, you had better take suggestions from an employment attorney. The attorney will take the necessary steps to recover legal compensation and penalty for you. Do not forget that you are protected under the employment law against race discrimination to get equal treatment in the workspace.
Ask for a legal remedy
By taking legal action, you may recover monetary damages like back pay, front pay, employee benefits, punitive damages, damages for emotional distress, etc.
Final Words
California racial discrimination laws cover some crucial factors in the arena of employment and workplace environment. As an employee, you have equal rights of getting payment and benefits from your employer without being judged on your racial identity. You should be aware of state laws and employee rights to shield yourself from such discrimination.
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