Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination. It is done based on religion, color, political beliefs, race, national origin and sex. Glassdoor’s Economic Research and Glassdoor’s Diversity & Inclusion Study 2019, conducted via an online survey by The Harris Poll in July 2019 found that 49% of employed US adults across four countries experienced or witnessed racism, gender or LGBTQ workplace discrimination.
The coronavirus health crisis added fuel to the fire. There was an increase in cases of wrongful termination on account of disability status, company position, parenthood and health status to lay off employees.
Workplace discrimination has a profound impact on Black and Hispanic employees like drained motivation, engagement and commitment. One enters a state of depression, a moral decline and loss of self-control too. Reduced job satisfaction often has a direct repercussion in terms of business productivity and profits. It also stifles creativity and leads to physical side effects like high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues as a result of stress. An employer is responsible to monitor and prevent discrimination in the organization. So, you can take these steps to create a company culture that celebrates and respects all.
1. Be Proactive Against Discrimination
Make it clear that certain acts of harassment like job denial, exclusion and isolation and refusal of training opportunities are unacceptable. In a survey, the majority of female tech professionals (57%) stated that they experienced gender discrimination whereas only 10% of men felt discriminated against in the workplace. So, gender disparity is unwelcomed as well. Try not to be afraid to take legal action by consulting an attorney.
It assures fairness and equality at work. Be sensitive to issues like bullying raised by workers and ensure each one has a fair chance to thrive. Create employment policies that ensure an environment free of unlawful discrimination by navigating federal and state laws against it. Register the complaint and investigate as soon as possible. Disciplinary and corrective actions along with the right counseling sessions can be the best routes to solutions.
2. Educate Your Employees
Around 4,500 Black truck drivers applied to work in Walmart between 2001 and 2008 and filed a lawsuit against the company for racial discrimination. American companies, in general, are hotbeds of discrimination for those who are not White, straight or able-bodied. Women of color are often paid less with minimal progress in closing wage gaps. No wonder the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement exploded in 2013 shedding light on biases in American workplaces. Tech giants like Google and Amazon also faced fresh legal battles in 2020 over racism and sexism allegations.
Given so many disputes, it is vital to prioritize mutual respect. Teach your colleagues and co-workers about the nuances of justified discrimination. All interviewers must be familiar with laws like Pregnancy Discrimination Act, Family Medical Leave Act and Americans with Disabilities Act. Be clear about what defines discrimination and harassment. Keep everyone updated and informed regarding the possible outcomes of prejudice, that is, a lawsuit. Make sure everyone is encouraged to stand up against discrimination.
3. Team Building Activities
Pick and choose tasks that promote the acceptance of individual differences. It is a great chance to understand your fellow workers while building trusted relationships. For example, a potluck has a sharing spirit that acknowledges diverse ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds. All participants will bring a special dish from their community and experience a great variety of meals together promoting social inclusion. Thanksgiving is another excellent way to offer gratitude to your co-workers. Each employee can try to embrace and understand one another. This is important to create a safe space for different kinds of perspectives, sexual orientations, sensitivities and mindsets. Try to question stereotypes, openly encourage interculturality, solidarity and cooperation and fight any treatment that is derogatory and unjustified. All of these can be done while you are taking part in team- building activities. Make sure no one is feeling undervalued and excluded. Also, everyone must be included in decision-making processes, if any.
Company Culture, Behaviour, and Social Issues, a survey by Ten Spot found that 76% of all respondents reported that the company they work for is psychologically and emotionally safe. Following these tips here will further help companies can see fruitful results. For example, you are most likely to end up with a better reputation and improved performances.
