Discrimination in the workplace can be very harmful. However, it does not just hurt the individual on the receiving end. Discrimination also hurts the team and the organization.
If you want to stop discrimination in the workplace you need to speak up about it.
Think About How To Respond To Discrimination
When a racist or sexist comment is made you need to work out how to respond. If the comment was made as a joke it could be enough to say that it’s not appropriate.
If comments continue, you may need to take further action. It might be worth asking the offending individual to stop making jokes or comments. If things continue it’s appropriate to take things further and begin the charge process.
The Unconscious Bias
In some workplaces, many people look the same. They have the same skin color and are the same gender.
In places such as these, people from a more diverse background may not be offered a job. They can have the same skills but the job might go to someone who looks like everyone else.
This could be a result of unconscious bias. They unconsciously show preference for someone who looks the same.
In cases such as this, it’s appropriate to take things further.
Challenge The Behavior As A Group
A really good way to deal with workplace discrimination is to challenge the behavior as a group.
You can:
- Encourage those you work with to complain to management
- Encourage everyone to speak up about discrimination
- Speak to human resources about how you all feel
- Ask managers to undergo training to help prevent further discrimination
- Speak up every time inequality happens
- Work to discourage discrimination at all levels
- Talk about the benefits of having a more diverse workplace
When your challenge the behavior as a group, you’re more likely to be heard.
Don’t Make It Personal
When fighting discrimination in the workplace remember you’re fighting injustice. Try not to target individuals, target their behavior and opinions. You cannot change the person by you can help to change their behavior and opinions.
Be Prepared To Take Things Further
In some cases, you may find that challenging discrimination in the workplace helps. However, you need to be prepared to take things further.
- There may be occasions when you do not win your fight. Keep going.
- Be prepared to go to court to stand up for what is right.
You don’t have to threaten court action, to begin with. Just have it at the back of your mind when you first challenge any unacceptable behavior.
Only when those who discriminate start to behave differently can real changes be made. The workplace should be equal and free from discrimination. Dealing with it can be hard. However, every step you take is a step towards a fair and more pleasant workplace.
Use the above tips to help you to fight and end discrimination in the workplace.
