While employment discrimination and harassment in the workplace awareness has grown exponentially over the last few decades, many workers may be still unaware of the ways they could be being discriminated against. Going beyond racial or sexual discrimination, other forms of discrimination can be just as toxic in a work environment and lead to denial of employee benefits or even wrongful termination. Here is a guide to some lesser known forms of discrimination:
- Physical attractiveness. With research suggesting that more conventionally "attractive" people earn more than their less attractive counterparts, several localities like Santa Cruz, California and Washington D.C. have laws banning discrimination on personal appearance.
- Age. Ageism is a growing issue in the U.S. as more millennials enter the workplace and baby boomers put off retirement. While federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act prohibits employers from discriminating against people over 40 based on age, some states like New York and New Jersey have laws that ban "reverse" age discrimination; protecting younger workers who are just as qualified and experienced.
- Pregnancy or being a parent. While an employer is not required to offer paid maternity leave, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act prevents employers from discriminating against workers applying for a position while pregnant and the Family and Medical Leave Act requires that many employees receive 12 weeks leave—unpaid—without fear of termination to care for a new a child.
The Meyers Law Firm is on your side in the event of discrimination, harassment or wrongful termination. Our employment discrimination lawyers are ready to review the details of your case and advise you on the next step.