Facing discrimination at work can be an incredibly difficult and disheartening experience. You deserve to work in an environment where you are treated with dignity and respect, free from unlawful bias based on your age, race, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or disability. If you are an Iowa employee experiencing discriminatory comments or treatment, it is important to know that you have rights and options. Taking action can feel daunting, but empowering yourself with knowledge is the first step toward reclaiming your professional dignity.
Understand What Constitutes Discrimination
Workplace discrimination can take many forms, from overt comments to subtle, systemic biases. It is illegal to treat an employee or job applicant differently based on protected characteristics such as:
Race, color, or national origin
Sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity
Religion or creed
Age (40 and over)
Disability
Discriminatory behavior can manifest as harassing comments, unequal pay, demotions, denial of promotions or benefits, unfair discipline, or termination. If you believe you have been subjected to such treatment, it is critical to document every instance to build a clear record of events.
Step 1: Document Everything
Creating a detailed record is one of the most powerful actions you can take. Your documentation should be a factual account of what happened, not an emotional one. This log will serve as an invaluable resource if you decide to pursue a formal complaint or legal action.
What to document:
Specifics of the incident: Note the date, time, and location of each event.
The people involved: List the names and job titles of the person who made the comments or took the discriminatory action, as well as any witnesses.
Direct quotes: Write down exactly what was said, not your interpretation of it.
Your immediate reaction: Describe how you responded to the event.
The company's response: If you reported the incident, record who you spoke with, the date of the conversation, and any actions (or inactions) the company took. Keep copies of all emails, memos, or other communications.
Step 2: Review Company Policy
Your employer likely has policies in place regarding discrimination and harassment. Familiarize yourself with your company’s employee handbook or policies to understand the proper internal reporting procedures. Following these steps is an important part of protecting your rights and can often lead to a resolution.
When reporting internally, be clear and direct. State the facts of what occurred, provide your documentation, and explain that you believe the treatment is discriminatory. This creates a formal record within the company that cannot be ignored.
Step 3: Seek External Guidance
If your employer fails to address the issue, or if you are not comfortable reporting it internally, you can turn to external resources. The Iowa Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) are government agencies that investigate claims of discrimination. Filing a claim with one of these agencies is a necessary step before you can file a lawsuit.
You do not have to navigate this process alone. Consulting with an employment law firm can provide you with the professional guidance and support you need. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options, ensure your claim is filed correctly, and advocate for you every step of the way.
We Are Here to Support You
Your right to a fair and safe workplace is non-negotiable. If you have been denied equal employment opportunities or have faced harassment in Iowa, Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C. is here to help. We are committed to fighting for your civil rights and holding employers accountable. We believe that your story matters, and we are ready to stand with you.
Contact us today by calling (515) 497-9409 to schedule a confidential consultation.