How to Report Workplace Discrimination

Workplace discrimination is on the rise, judging by cases filed with government agencies. In November 2008 the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) reported that employment-discrimination claims increased 15.2 percent in fiscal year 2008. Protecting yourself from employment discrimination begins by knowing your company's anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies.

Things You'll Need

• Company policy on discrimination and harassment Documented facts Supporting evidence

Instructions

How to report workplace discrimination

1. Print or copy your company's policies on discrimination and harassment. Review each carefully so you understand the complaint procedure in your organization. These steps should be followed to ensure proper and timely reporting.

2. Summarize the issues in a document, preferably in a timeline format. Include specific examples and quotes, and list other employees or outsiders who were present during the discriminatory act. Gather supporting materials, including copies of emails, instant-message strings or other electronic communications.

3. Report the problem to management as company policy requires. If your company does not have a policy or the policy does not designate an individual to whom discrimination should be reported, you should report the problem to your direct supervisor, any manager you trust in your work area or the human resources manager.

4. Cooperate with the company investigation. Agree to any company requests to meet with you or any requests for more information

5. File a complaint with the appropriate government agency in your area if the company fails to respond or you are unsatisfied with the result. In California, for example, you would contact the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) and in any state you may file with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Tips & Warnings

• This article provides general information about legal topics, but it's not a substitute for legal advice.

References

• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
• California Department of Fair Employment and Housing