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Can White People Be Victims Of Workplace Discrimination?

On Behalf of | May 23, 2023 | Workplace Discrimination

Yes. The law is very clear on this matter: all employees are protected from discrimination based on race or color, and that includes white people even though they are not a minority.

White employees are often reluctant to step forward in these situations for fear they are not protected under the law or due to concerns that their complaints will not be taken seriously. They may also worry that they will face retaliation if they bring incidents of workplace discrimination to light. However, caucasian people are entitled to the same protections as all other workers.

Discrimination against caucasian workers may involve name-calling, ethnic slurs, being overlooked for promotions or raises, being given the most undesirable work and more. Discrimination against white employees may occur in all workplaces, not just those where white people are outnumbered by members of other racial groups. In fact, it is even illegal for white people to discriminate against other white people on the basis of race or color. In addition, biracial or multiracial employees are also protected from being discriminated against for appearing white or light-skinned.

The law requires a discrimination-free workplace for all. White people who believe they have been discriminated against at work can file a claim and that claim can be successful. White people who report employment discrimination are also protected against retaliation. If they report discrimination and are terminated, demoted or otherwise retaliated against at work they may pursue a claim.