There have been state and federal laws protecting workers from racial discrimination for decades. In theory, everyone in management and human resources is aware of these legal protections. Those running businesses understand that they should not discriminate against individuals on the basis of their race, color or national origin.
Unfortunately, awareness and compliance do not necessarily go hand in hand. While racial discrimination is less common than it once was, it does still affect the career development of people of color. Workers from a variety of different racial backgrounds may find that their employers do not treat them the same as other employees. They may face mistreatment and unfair obstacles in the workplace that not only limit their career development but also affect their mental health.
What are some of the ways that racial discrimination continues to manifest in modern workplaces?
1. Promotion discrimination
Many companies claim to offer equal employment opportunities. They may hire workers from any background for entry-level positions. However, when the time comes to fill recently-vacant roles within the company, workers from certain racial backgrounds may find that they do not receive the same consideration as others.
Although companies shouldn’t consider race when promoting workers, the people making decisions may have biases. Research into career advancements in corporate America has shown that there is a glass ceiling that applies based on race as well as sex.
2. Questionable appearance policies
Employers sometimes include subtly racist requirements in employee handbooks and workplace appearance standards. For example, they may insist that men need to have clean-shaven faces. That demand can create unfair pressure for men with darker complexions, who are at greater risk of razor burn caused by shaving.
Workers may also face unfair discrimination or may need to take on additional expenses because of company policies limiting the hairstyles that they use. Rules against protective hairstyles or standards that require straightened hair are potentially discriminatory.
3. Hostile work environments
Even when corporate policies do not directly favor one race over others or put people of color at a disadvantage, the company may still allow discrimination to occur. Providing adequate training regarding harassment in the workplace is important.
Otherwise, workers might make inappropriate statements to one another or may mistreat coworkers on the basis of their race. When the abuse becomes pervasive, it may create a hostile work environment. If management doesn’t intervene to protect the targeted workers or discipline the people engaging in harassment, that could constitute discrimination.
Reviewing recent workplace experiences can help employees determine if they have experienced racial discrimination. People of color who have been mistreated or denied opportunities may have grounds to take legal action against their employers for engaging in or allowing racial discrimination.