When someone is treated unfairly or differently because of their race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, this is called discrimination. It can take many forms, including harassment, denial of opportunities, unequal pay, or exclusion from certain activities or services.
If you find yourself facing disability discrimination in the workplace in Los Angeles, it can feel like an insurmountable challenge. The steps you take next could shape your future in ways you never imagined.
A disability discrimination lawyer in Los Angeles, Omid Nosrati, said that you can probably make a claim against your employer if they treat you unfairly because of your disability or even because they think you might have one. Remember that your rights are protected, but it’s up to you to take action.
The journey ahead may seem challenging, but with the right guidance, you can assert your rights and create a more inclusive work environment for yourself and others.
Know Your Rights
To effectively combat disability discrimination in the workplace, understanding your rights is necessary. As an employee in Los Angeles, you’re protected by both federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination based on disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) makes sure that you have the right to reasonable accommodations that enable you to perform your job duties.
Under the ADA, your employer can’t discriminate against you because of your disability, whether it’s physical or mental. You have the right to request accommodations that will help you perform your job effectively. It’s important to communicate with your employer about your needs and work together to find suitable solutions.
The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) provides further protections against disability discrimination in the workplace. This state law reinforces the ADA and offers additional safeguards for employees in California. Knowing your rights under these laws empowers you to advocate for yourself and take action if you experience discrimination.
Document Incidents
Start keeping a detailed record of any incidents of disability discrimination you experience in the workplace. Documenting these incidents is key in building a strong case against discrimination. Make sure to include relevant details such as the date, time, location, individuals involved, and a description of what happened. Note down any witnesses present as their statements can provide additional support to your case. Keep track of any discriminatory comments, actions, or decisions made against you due to your disability.
Maintain a log or journal specifically dedicated to recording these incidents. Be as specific and objective as possible when documenting each occurrence. Include how the discrimination made you feel and the impact it had on your work performance or well-being. Besides, save any relevant emails, texts, or written communications that support your claims of discrimination. Having a thorough and organized record of these incidents will be invaluable if you decide to take further action.
Seek Legal Advice
When faced with instances of disability discrimination in the workplace, it’s important to consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and options for addressing the situation. Consulting with an experienced employment law attorney can provide you with valuable insights into the legal aspects of your case. A legal professional can help you navigate the complex laws surrounding disability discrimination and provide guidance on the best course of action to take.
Legal advice can empower you to make informed decisions about how to proceed with addressing the discrimination you have experienced. An attorney can review the details of your situation, assess the strength of your case, and outline the potential legal options available to you. They can also help you understand the relevant laws and regulations that protect individuals with disabilities in the workplace.
File a Complaint
You should consider initiating the process of filing a complaint if you have experienced disability discrimination in the workplace. Filing a complaint is a key step in addressing discrimination and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.
To start, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). Both agencies have processes in place to investigate claims of disability discrimination in the workplace.
When filing a complaint, make sure to provide detailed information about the discrimination you have faced, including specific incidents, dates, and individuals involved. It’s important to keep records of any relevant documents, such as emails, performance evaluations, or witness statements, to support your complaint.
Follow Up on Actions
To make sure progress in addressing disability discrimination in the workplace, it’s important to follow up on actions taken after filing a complaint. Following up demonstrates your commitment to resolving the issue and guarantee that the necessary steps are being taken to address the discrimination effectively. Start by scheduling a meeting with the appropriate HR personnel or management to discuss the status of your complaint and any actions that have been or will be taken.
During the follow-up meeting, ask for specific details on the measures being implemented to address the discrimination and inquire about the timeline for these actions. For future reference, it’s important to document everything discussed during the meeting. If you feel that progress isn’t being made or if the discrimination persists, consider seeking assistance from legal resources specializing in disability discrimination cases.
Conclusion
If you experience disability discrimination in the workplace in Los Angeles, remember to know your rights, document incidents, seek legal advice, file a complaint, and follow up on actions taken. It’s important to take action and stand up for your rights to ensure a fair and inclusive work environment.
