While employers in Indiana are generally required to take action to prevent workplace discrimination, it still occurs on a regular basis. In some cases, you may be discriminated against without even knowing it.
Pregnancy discrimination is relatively common
If you are pregnant, you are entitled to reasonable accommodations from your employer. This may include being put on light duty, working fewer hours or working from home. It is generally illegal to terminate or otherwise treat pregnant workers differently than others who have mental or physical health conditions.
Retirement doesn’t mean what it used to
In the past, it wasn’t uncommon for people to retire as they approached age 65. However, there is a good chance that you will be working well past your 65th birthday. As you get older, you may be more likely to experience age discrimination either from a manager or from colleagues. According to one survey, two-thirds of respondents over the age of 45 said that they had been treated differently at work because of their age.
Caregivers can face unfavorable treatment at work
The lack of paid leave in the United States means that you have to balance taking care of loved ones with your responsibilities at work. This may mean that you need flexible hours or other accommodations that others in the office might not receive. It could also result in missed opportunities to be promoted or obtain a raise that might make it easier to care for a child, parent or grandparent.
If you feel that you have been the victim of workplace discrimination, it may be a good idea to speak with an attorney. He or she may be able to review your case to determine if your employer has violated state or federal laws.