Racial harassment in professional environments often includes racial slurs, derogatory comments about a person’s race or color, racially offensive jokes, and instances of intimidation or display of racially insensitive symbols, objects, or images. This form of harassment can make the workplace an unpleasant, uncomfortable, or even insulting space and may adversely impact an employee’s productivity.
It’s crucial to note that racial harassment can originate from anyone within the organization, be it a supervisor, a fellow coworker, or even a client or customer. For a deeper understanding of racial harassment from a legal perspective and what you can do if you’ve fallen victim to such practices or race discrimination, please get in touch with PLBH at (800) 435-7542.
The Employer’s Responsibility in Case of Reported Racial Harassment
When an employer in California is notified about a racial harassment incident, the law necessitates swift action to prevent subsequent incidents. This includes undertaking an immediate and unbiased examination of the event. If a supervisor is found to have perpetrated racial harassment, the employer is held “strictly liable” under California law.
This essentially means that the moment harassment is established, the employer is automatically held accountable. When an employee is harassed by another colleague on racial grounds, the employer must be alerted and provided the opportunity to probe into and rectify the issue before liability comes into play.
Typical Manifestations of Racial Harassment at Work
Racial harassment or discrimination can take on many forms in a workplace, including but not limited to offensive remarks, jokes, or other behaviors grounded on race or color that result in a threatening, hostile, or disagreeable work atmosphere or hinder an employee’s ability to fulfill their duties.
Examples can also include employee classifications that isolate workers of certain races, ethnicities, or skin colors from their peers, restrict them from interacting with customers, or confine them to particular job roles. Other instances involve termination of employment, denial of benefits, or withholding of fair pay on the basis of one’s race.
Furthermore, assigning employees of a certain race, color, or ethnicity to specific establishments or geographic areas due to their race, color, or ethnicity is also prohibited by law.
Seeking Support if You’ve Been Affected by Racial Harassment or Discrimination
No individual should be subjected to unfair treatment due to their race, ethnicity, or cultural heritage. No one should have to tolerate racial harassment in their place of work. If you feel you’ve been subjected to racial harassment or discrimination at work because of your skin color or ethnicity, reach out to PLBH at (800) 435-7542.
We offer a free consultation and are committed to fighting for your right to a workplace free from illegal discrimination and harassment.