Workplace discrimination based on race, national origin, gender, pregnancy or religion are all prohibited. Workplace discrimination based on age is also barred, as well as workplace discrimination based on disability. Workers also have other equal pay protections to be aware of. Workers are also protected from unlawful retaliation in the workplace and unlawful termination. A variety of federal laws protect workers from workplace discrimination in their jobs and state laws may also apply as well. Employment laws work to protect workers on-the-job.
There are certain actions that employers cannot take or they may run the risk of a workplace discrimination claim. Employers are prohibited from refusing to hire; denying training; failing to promote; paying less; demoting; harassing; firing; or disciplining workers based on protected categories that are designed to prevent workplace discrimination. When workers are familiar with their workplace protections, they can ensure their rights are not violated.
Laws prohibiting workplace discrimination are in place to ensure the livelihoods of workers are protected because most workers rely on their jobs to care for themselves and their families. As a result, it is important for them to be familiar with workplace discrimination prohibitions and what they can do if they have suffered discrimination at work.