Despite our nation’s long history of challenging discriminatory policies based on race and the undeniable benefits that come with rich, culturally diverse workplaces, racial discrimination is still a very real problem for many American workers. However, thanks to both federal and state laws, there are strong protections for job applicants and employees in North Carolina. At The Noble Law, we know it takes a lot of courage to come forward with such allegations against a current or potential employer, and so we provide a safe space to tell your story.
If you have been treated unfairly or differently at work because of your race, remember that the law is firmly on your side. The tenacious advocates at our firm can bring this illegal conduct to light and fight for the justice you deserve. Workplace racial harassment and discrimination can result in employees who are underpaid, undervalued, overlooked, harassed, and even terminated. This treatment is an attack on your dignity and livelihood, and it is totally unacceptable. We can help you gain the upper hand.
From the moment you reach out to The Noble law, our lawyers and staff will treat you as a valued part of a team. We emphasize open communication. If you suspect you have been a victim of race discrimination at work, please reach out to the Noble Law.
How to Identify Race Discrimination in the Workplace
Workplace discrimination occurs when employers make decisions about hiring, pay, advancement, termination, or disciplinary action based on color or race in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights of 1964. The Act also prohibits employers from engaging in practices that appear neutral but have a disparate impact on racial groups.
Some forms of racial discrimination in the workplace are obvious and glaring, while others may be more subtle. It is important to be sensitive to all the signs.
Examples of racial harassment and race discrimination in the workplace include:
- Questions about your race during a job interview
- Lack of racial diversity in the workforce
- Racial slurs and jokes, and other hostile verbal communications
- Racially offensive imagery and emails
- Unequal pay, benefits, or leave among employees of different races
- Unfair promotions or disciplinary actions
- Layoffs disproportionately targeting members of a certain racial group
- Unequal distribution of work assignments among racial groups
A key point to remember is that it is illegal for your employer to base ANY job-related decisions on your race or color. The law is clear here! It is also illegal for your employer to punish or harass you in any way for reporting racial discrimination. This is true even if your report does not result in any disciplinary action.
The sad reality is that many people experience more than one kind of discrimination at a time. For example, a woman might experience sex discrimination in addition to race discrimination. Similarly, an individual with disabilities who is a member of a racial minority may experience disability discrimination at the same time as race discrimination.
Race Discrimination Statistics in NC and Across the U.S.
As attorneys who help clients facing racial discrimination, we think it’s important to validate your experience and help put the issue in the proper context. The statistics are alarming.
Consider that this found race discrimination allegations comprise 37% of the Title VII Claims filed in North Carolina’s EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) field office. There were 23,976 claims alleging employment-related race discrimination violations of federal law.
Another academic study surveyed 40 million employees age 48 and older nationwide in the U.S. According to the study, Black workers overall experienced “the highest prevalence” of workplace discrimination and mistreatment. Black women were more than twice as likely as white men to report discrimination in the workplace.
These numbers reflect only a fraction of the American workforce. You can only imagine how many more have chosen to remain to silent for fear of losing their source of income. If you have been suffering in silence or have only recently been exposed to racial discrimination in your place of business, consulting a workplace discrimination attorney is an empowering first step.
North Carolina’s Top Racial Discrimination Lawyers are at The Noble Law
Whether you are continuing to work for your employer or are ready to take immediate legal action, The Noble Law is prepared to support you every step of the way. Talk to us about how to document ongoing acts of discrimination, planning an exit strategy, filing a timely claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and what to expect after a charge is filed.
It’s our privilege to stand up for your rights, help you maintain your career track, restore your reputation, and help you find closure. There are strict statutory time limits for filing charges of workplace racial harassment and discrimination, so please reach out today to schedule a confidential consultation with a member of our team. You have an ally and advocate here at The Noble Law.