If you face discrimination in your workplace, you may be hesitant to file a complaint or talk about this misconduct. Often, victims feel afraid of losing their job or worry that the mistreatment will only get worse.
But discrimination is typically not an isolated experience. Often, multiple people are going through the same thing. Knowing this can help you protect yourself and your rights in the following ways.
It can help you come forward
Filing an individual complaint of discrimination can make people feel like they are putting a target on their back. They don’t want to be singled out more than they already are.
However, if other employees are part of the same protected class as you (e.g., the same age, race, gender or religion), chances are they have experienced similar mistreatment. When there are others, you can feel more confident and supported in calling out bad behaviors.
It can strengthen your case
When multiple people have the same exposure to workplace discrimination, their accounts can collectively bolster claims against perpetrators.
Further, when multiple parties are mistreated in the same way by the same parties, there can be more pressure for employers to take action. They can be more likely to fire the offending parties, change policies or settle discrimination claims with victims.
It can help you recover
In addition to recovering damages in light of discrimination, parties also must think about recovering emotionally and psychologically. Studies show that employees subjected to discrimination often suffer from stress, depression and anxiety.
Having a support system of people who understand this can allow people to be more open and honest throughout the recovery process and reframe faulty beliefs.
Finding others in the same situation
Victims of discrimination can worry every day about their job security and their mental health. Taking on the task of finding others who may be in the same situation may not seem possible.
However, this can be easier when you keep records of discriminatory incidences, pay attention to others who may be in the same situation and talk to an attorney who can investigate in ways you cannot.
No worker should face discrimination in the workplace. If you are in this position, know that you are not alone.