From mistreatment on the basis of a staff member’s religious views to turning down a job applicant because of their racial background, discrimination occurs in many different ways. Sadly, many employees continue to experience violations of their rights, and some face retaliation. For example, workers who stand up for themselves after experiencing discrimination could lose their job or become demoted.
Unlawful retaliation can also impact employees who participate in a discrimination investigation.
How widespread is retaliation-based discrimination?
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission provides data on retaliation-based discrimination. During fiscal year 2022, the EEOC received 37,898 such receipts, up from fiscal year 2021 (34,332) and fiscal year 2020 (37,632). This only includes charges filed with the EEOC, not local or state employment agencies.
Regrettably, some victims of retaliation-based discrimination choose to remain silent. For example, some victims worry about losing their job or facing other consequences. In addition, some do not have a clear understanding of their legal rights.
How should victims address retaliation-based discrimination?
When workers experience illegal retaliation due to discrimination or any other factor, they must address the mistreatment. It is essential for employers who fail to respect the rights of their staff members to face consequences and for victims to do everything in their power to prevent retaliation from occurring in the future.
In fiscal year 2022, retaliation-based discrimination charges resulted in victims receiving $220.1 million worth of monetary benefits (excluding awards paid through litigation). Those who experience retaliation or any other type of employee rights violation deserve justice.
