Race Discrimination in the Workplace

Although we like to think that society has moved beyond the rampant discrimination of past generations, it is an unfortunate fact that discrimination still exists. While we have undoubtedly made great strides in the past few decades, we have yet to eradicate it completely. The cornerstone of equality in the workplace is the legislation that protects employees, and although the laws passed to eliminate discrimination have helped, they are nothing but words if not properly enforced.

Understanding the Laws

The first US laws prohibiting racial discrimination in the workplace were passed in the mid-1960s, starting with the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Since then, more legislation has been enacted to ensure equality in the workplace, including the Civil Rights Act of 1991, which expanded and reformed the earlier Civil Rights Act.

Under federal law, it is illegal to discriminate at any level of employment, from hiring and firing to the use of company facilities and payment benefits.

The law forbids any harassment or discrimination based on race, color, sex, age, religion, or nation of origin. An employer is not allowed to let any of these qualities affect his or her decisions.

Contact Us

If you feel that you have been discriminated against in the workplace based on race or any other factor, you do not have to quietly endure this injustice. Contact the Austin employment lawyers at The Melton Law Firm by calling (512) 330-0017 for the legal assistance you deserve.