Today’s workplace, while very diverse, still experiences far too much discrimination and hostility directed at employees. One of the most difficult situations for employees involves being the victims of racial slurs or other derogatory acts from their bosses, resulting in embarrassment and humiliation in front of others with which they work. And to make matters worse, in many instances when the employee tries to take steps to have their boss held accountable for their actions, the employee finds herself facing a boss who is trying to get her fired. However, there are steps that can be taken to ensure this does not happen.
Documentation Is Crucial
If an employee feels they are being treated unfairly and are enduring racial slurs, documentation is the key to resolving this situation. Any time the employee’s boss uses a racial slur, it should be documented by the employee. Noting exactly what was said, who said it, who if anyone witnessed the event, and any other pertinent information should be documented. When an event of this nature occurs, an employee has a right to approach their Human Resources department in an effort to resolve the situation. However, many times these complaints fall on deaf ears, and are brushed off as a joke or a remark taken out of context.
Behind-The-Scenes Firings
When employees believe their boss is trying to get them fired, it is again documentation that can prove invaluable as proof. Being given unsatisfactory evaluations suddenly, after years of positive reviews, can be a sign that something is amiss. Also, being transferred or demoted for no apparent reason can also signal a behind-the-scenes effort from a boss to make an employee either get discouraged enough to quit or perform poorly enough to justify being fired.
Seeking Advice
If any of these workplace situations exist and all efforts on the job have been exhausted, contacting an attorney knowledgeable in employment law is a smart choice. Experienced in handling situations involving discrimination and hostile work environments, employment law attorneys can examine whatever evidence an employee possesses and assess the situation. If it appears as if there was racial discrimination involved as well as a concentrated effort on the part of a boss to retaliate, a lawsuit focusing on employment law as well as civil rights violations may be necessary. If an employee is facing these circumstances, they need legal advice and assistance as soon as possible. Contact Frasier Law today or call 918-779-3658.