Workplace discrimination remains a pervasive issue, undermining equality and fairness in professional environments. Employees are protected from discriminatory practices under federal and state laws, but understanding how to recognize and respond to workplace discrimination is essential to safeguarding your rights.

What Is Workplace Discrimination?

Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly or differently based on protected characteristics. Examples of protected characteristics include:

• Race, color, or ethnicity
• Gender or sexual orientation
• Age (40 or older)
• Religion or creed
• Disability or pregnancy
• National origin or citizenship status

Discrimination can occur at any stage of employment, including hiring, promotions, pay, benefits, job assignments, and termination.

Examples of Discriminatory Practices

Discriminatory practices may include:

• Refusing to hire a qualified candidate based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics.
• Denying promotions or raises to employees from certain demographic groups.
• Subjecting employees to harassment or a hostile work environment due to their protected characteristics.
• Paying employees unequally for the same work based on gender or other factors.
• Retaliating against employees who report discrimination or participate in investigations.

Your Legal Protections

Employees are protected against workplace discrimination under several laws, including:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act: Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Protects employees with disabilities from discrimination and requires reasonable accommodations.
• Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Prohibits age-based discrimination for employees aged 40 and older.
• Equal Pay Act: Requires equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender.
• New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD): Provides broader protections against workplace discrimination in New Jersey.

These laws ensure that employees are treated fairly and provide remedies for those who experience discrimination.

Steps to Take If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you’ve been subjected to workplace discrimination, taking the following steps can help you protect your rights:

1. Document the Discrimination: Keep detailed records of discriminatory actions, including dates, times, witnesses, and communications.
2. Report the Issue Internally: File a formal complaint with your HR department or follow your company’s internal reporting procedures.
3. File a Complaint with Authorities: Submit a claim to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or your state’s civil rights agency, such as the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights.
4. Consult an Employment Lawyer: An experienced attorney can help you assess your case, file legal claims, and seek damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and other harms.

How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help

Castronovo & McKinney, LLC has a proven track record of fighting for employees who have experienced workplace discrimination. Our attorneys can:

• Evaluate your case to determine if your rights were violated under state or federal laws.
• Help you file complaints with the EEOC or the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights.
• Negotiate settlements to secure compensation for damages and ensure your employer implements corrective measures.
• Represent you in court to hold your employer accountable for discriminatory practices.

We are dedicated to ensuring justice for employees and fostering equitable workplaces.

Take Action Against Workplace Discrimination

If you’ve experienced discrimination at work, don’t wait to seek help. Contact
Castronovo & McKinney, Workplace Discrimination Attorneys today for a consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.