Workplace Discrimination: What it is and How to be an Ally

Imagine putting in your best day in and out at work, only to face unjust treatment because of things about yourself you can't change.

Prejudice is an issue that a whopping 91% of employees have experienced in professional environments at one time or another. Whether due to gender, race, ethnicity, or age, encountering workplace discrimination is disheartening and has a lasting impact on a victim's well-being and professional growth.

Fortunately, workplace allies are a haven during these moments. They're colleagues willing to stand alongside victims, offering support and solidarity in the face of discrimination. They're also crucial in building a healthy working environment where everyone thrives regardless of background or characteristics.

5 Common Forms of Workplace Discrimination

Many employees have experienced the following types of discrimination at work in one form or another, from unfair hiring practices to unequal pay raises.

1. Racism

Have you witnessed a coworker dismissing an employee of color's ideas without reason? It might be a case of racism—something that 24% of Black and Hispanic workers endure. Racism destroys workplace cohesion as privileged employees alienate themselves from others. It's also illegal, as per Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

2. Sexism

Despite over a century of efforts to eradicate the disparity between men and women, the latter are still 14% less likely to receive promotions than their male colleagues. Workplace sexism can lead to frustrations and imposter syndrome among female employees. Again, it's illegal; discriminating against colleagues based on their sex could open perpetrators and the company up to lawsuits.

3. Gender discrimination

Likewise, 46% of LGBTQIA+ employees face the same prejudice at work through offensive remarks, exclusion, and harassment. These instances can severely traumatize community members, creating a hostile work environment that undermines everyone's ability to perform their jobs effectively. It also violates employees' rights and may damage your organization's reputation.

4. Ableism

Don't be surprised to see fewer people with disabilities in your workplace. They're significantly less likely to have work than those without disabilities, partly due to a lack of opportunities. It also marginalizes PWDs and creates a workplace divide. Discriminating against them is illegal, with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protecting their work prospects.

5. Age discrimination

Older employees might sometimes overlook their younger colleagues or vice versa, creating a generational divide in the workplace. It also perpetuates stereotypes, making collaboration between different age groups challenging. However, note that age discrimination—especially those against older folk—is illegal under the Age Discrimination Act.

How to Be an Ally in the Workplace

Eradicating your hostile workplace and creating a supporting environment requires the following proactive efforts from everyone in your organization.

Speak up against discrimination

Remember, silence is complicity. You must speak up when you witness discrimination or unfair treatment at work. Some victims may be unable to do so due to fear of retaliation, so use your voice to advocate for equality. It demonstrates your commitment to creating a more inclusive and respectful work environment.

Practice bystander intervention

Similarly, it's important to step in and defend targets of workplace harassment and discrimination. Confronting perpetrators and offering victims your support sends a powerful message that you don't tolerate prejudice. It can eradicate the victim's isolation and alienation, creating a caring company culture.

Report incidents to HR

Your human resources department is responsible for keeping the organization compliant with labor laws, including anti-discrimination policies. So, report discrimination incidents to allow proper investigations and corrective actions. However, if you feel unsafe reporting to HR, you may directly approach your local labor office.

Challenge personal biases

It's crucial to realize you may still have personal biases and assumptions, regardless of progress. Being an ally means working on them, too, so take the time to reflect on your actions toward different groups of people. You can also participate in diversity training and discussions to improve your self-awareness and actively work toward overcoming these biases.

Be an Ally!

Allies are vital in creating a culture of inclusivity, respect, and equality within organizations. Exercising the practices we discussed can turn you into one, but your journey toward a discrimination-free workplace do

esn't end there. 

You must consider how to incorporate them into your daily interactions. Also, take the initiative to educate yourself further on issues surrounding diversity. Remember, being an ally isn't only about what you do within the company—it's also about your actions outside of it. 

If you're looking for further resources or opportunities to get involved, consider contacting your HR department or a trusted employment lawyer dedicated to advancing workplace equality.