How to Eliminate Discrimination at Work
Although the United States government has made an effort towards eliminating discrimination in the workplace, laws alone cannot solve the problem. In conjunction with these laws, on-site policies must be developed and enforced, thereby providing the employees with the knowledge and tools necessary for a healthy, nondiscriminatory environment.
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Instructions
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Understand the laws that govern workplace discrimination. The United States Equal Opportunity Commission outlines the primary federal anti-discrimination acts, which include Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (which prohibits discrimination based on race, sex, religion, nationality or color), the Equal Pay Act (which protects women workers against pay discrimination), the Age Discrimination Act (which protects against employment decisions based on age) and Title I and Title V of the Americans with Disabilities Act (which prohibits employment discrimination against qualified disabled persons).
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Develop a clear non-discrimination policy that not only articulates the rules, but explains why those rules are important and what consequences will follow should those rules be violated.
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Make sure management supports and is willing to enforce the policy. Furthermore, make sure management will actively pursue its implementation.
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Disseminate the information to all employees. USA Today suggests that employers conduct discrimination training at every level of employment.
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Foster a safe environment by encouraging employees to report discrimination when witnessed, and protecting whistleblowers from retaliation.
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Lead by example. Employers who hire a diverse group of people and treat those people equally will encourage that same treatment from employees.
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Tips & Warnings
Morale boosting events that focus on different holidays and cultural customs can help foster understanding and appreciation for the diversity of the workplace.
