Although it has been nearly 51 years since Martin Luther King, Jr. made his famous “I Have a Dream Speech,” racial discrimination in the workplace is still alive and well. While racial discrimination may not be as blatant as it was 50 years ago, discrimination still exists. In many corporations, small businesses and companies across the nation, unlawful racial discrimination is keeping hardworking qualified candidates out of work or earning less than other candidates.

What is Racial Discrimination?

Last November, we reported on the topic of racial discrimination in the workplace. Readers learned that racial discrimination can take many different forms. Basically, anytime a person is treated unfavorably because of his or her race, that’s racial discrimination. It’s important to note that discriminatory practices can happen to people of a certain gender, sexual orientation, nationality origin, disability or religion. Racial discrimination might also occur if somebody is married to a person of a specific race or if a person is affiliated with a certain organization or team associated with a particular race.

Types of Race Discrimination in the Workplace

• Racial jokes
• Racially-driven hiring/firing practices
• Racially-driven promotion/training opportunity practices
• Derogatory remarks
• Offensive symbols
• Racial slurs
• Hostile work environment due to race issues
• Giving a person of a particular race an advantage or disadvantage

How to Handle Racial Discrimination in Southwest Florida

If you feel like you may have been discriminated against due to a racial reason, you should contact an experienced employment law attorney as soon as possible. Discrimination needs to be stopped in its tracks. Since racial discrimination can happen in a variety of ways, it’s important to discuss your specific situation with a professional. An experienced employment law attorney can guide you during this difficult time. Even though racial discrimination is still occurring, people across Southwest Florida can reflect on the advances in civil rights and Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, feeling confident in a future that is much brighter for younger generations, especially when brave workers come forward with allegations of racial discrimination. Don’t stand idly by. Contact the experienced team at Weldon & Rothman, PL for a consultation today.

Legal Disclaimer: The above guidelines are educational in nature and do not create an attorney/client relationship. It is highly recommended that all Florida citizens with employment law issues contact an experienced local Florida employment law attorney to assist them with specific facts and circumstances regarding their labor and employment law matter. If you have been the victim of illegal activities at your workplace, then feel free to contact Attorney Rothman at Weldon & Rothman, PL toll free at (877) 730-5180 or via e-mail at info@weldonrothman.com

Bradley P. Rothman is an experienced Florida employment law attorney who has been recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star.  He is a principal member of Weldon & Rothman, PL – a Southwest Florida law firm with offices in Naples, Fort Myers, and Sarasota.