Last Updated on Jun 15, 2022 by James W
Racial discrimination is something that is experienced worldwide and a common reason behind countless employment lawsuits. Although racism is illegal, it doesn’t prevent bias from happening.
The “Black Lives Matter” protest has proven that the people of this world are unwilling to accept racism in any form; this is also true in the workplace. Employees are no longer willing to lie down and accept what they are given.
If you face racism at work, don’t be afraid to file a discrimination charge; this is one of the first steps to ensure you don’t have to face racism again.
Keep The Conversation Going
Firstly, acknowledge the injustice and commit to doing better; this could mean standing up for anyone facing this issue.
Supporting anyone who is subjected to racial discrimination by serving as a credible witness may deter the offender from committing another offense. Please ensure that it is not a case of ‘your word versus mine.’
Initiate productive and respectful discussions and provide training to staff if you are an employer; this will ensure your employees feel safe and respected. In a healthy office, your employees should feel safe enough to come forward about any issues they are facing.
Spread Awareness
As an employer, you should be providing your staff with materials and training. Training can include learning about the history of racism and how to respect others’ cultures.
Unfortunately, many targets of racial discrimination stay quiet out of dread of retribution.
Justifying or ignoring one comment establishes the tone that racism is acceptable; this is how toxic culture thrives.
If management were to fall short in this sector, victims of racial bias would be unable to come forward in the future. Companies should be held accountable not just by their staff but also by the public.
Accept That There Is A Problem
Once you have acknowledged that there is a problem, there can be problem-solving techniques employed. Now it is time to prioritize anti-racism in the office (and in everyday life).
As a start, look at every policy in the company through an anti-racist lens; if any issues are picked up, flag the problem to be resolved as efficiently as possible.
Address the lack of representation in the company you currently work for. Are enough people of color working in your offices? Do the people of color in your offices feel safe expressing their concerns?
Make Staff Accountable
There should be severe consequences for anyone who uses racial slurs. All employment contracts should add a layer of protection both for yourself and for people of color working for you.
If staff are aware of the consequences of racial bias in the office, there will be fewer offenses.
An employer must make a shift from a compliance and liability avoidance strategy to one that addresses and avoids discrimination and retaliation in its internal complaint procedures.
Each of us is responsible for addressing and challenging racism at work. Those in charge of the department should ensure that all complaints of racial discrimination are taken seriously.
