Employment discrimination Employment discrimination Employment discrimination has many faces. It may be based on race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, or age. Discriminatory practices in the workplace may include bias in hiring, granting promotions, assigning jobs, setting wages, and disciplining and terminating employees. The act of discriminating against another person at work isn t limited to employers, however.
Employees also can discriminate against others, including fellow co-workers and superiors.
However, the employer usually is liable for discrimination that goes unchecked. Federal and state laws govern the relationship between employers and employees in the private and public sectors. The Equal Opportunity Employment Commission investigates complaints of employment discrimination, reports findings, and initiates legal action when necessary. The Commission evolved from the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to interpret and enforce the Act s provisions. The Commission also interprets and enforces the Equal Pay Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans With Disabilities Act, and sections of the Rehabilitation Act.