If you are discriminated against at work, perhaps you are unfairly denied a promotion because of your identity attribute, you need to report the matter. But how can you report it? And should you report it internally or externally?
Here is what to know:
Report the case to the HR Department
The Human Resources (HR) department is responsible for handling discrimination cases. Therefore, if you are treated unfavorably for discriminatory reasons, you should report the case to this department.
The procedures for reporting are likely written in the company policy you signed. Review the document to ensure you follow the included rules and procedures. Upon reporting, the department is required to investigate the case to provide an appropriate solution and implement preventative policies if necessary.
File a complaint with CRD
If you believe the solution provided internally is not satisfactory or a senior or your employer is the party that discriminated against you, consider filing a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). You can do this online by clicking “Complaints” on the CRD homepage.
You have one year to report a discriminatory act to the CRD from the date the alleged conduct occurred. In some cases, employees have a deadline of three years to report.
File a complaint with EEOC.
You can also file a job discrimination complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) by mail or in person at the nearest EEOC office. You have 180 to 300 days to report, depending on the case.
Note that the EEOC can handle your case, or you may be directed to another organization that can help you.
It can be challenging to know the right person or organization to help you when you experience discrimination at work, especially when your case is complicated. Thus, get adequate information from the beginning to know the steps to take.