Workplaces should be inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Unfortunately, illegal discrimination against people with disabilities occurs far too often. It is important to be aware of indications that your workplace is discriminating against individuals with disabilities. 1. Limited access If your workplace does not have ramps, elevators or accessible restrooms, it makes it hard for people with mobility issues to move around comfortably. Also, if important information is only given verbally or in ways that some employees cannot understand, it excludes people with hea ..read more

Retaliation in the workplace occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee for engaging in protected activity. To succeed in a retaliation case, employees must meet specific legal requirements. They also must provide evidence supporting their claims. Understanding what employees need to prove is helpful for those facing retaliation and seeking legal recourse. Establishing protected activity The first step in proving retaliation is demonstrating that the employee engaged in protected activity. This might include filing a complaint with human resources, participating in an inv ..read more

Whistleblowing is a serious step that requires careful consideration. If you find yourself in a situation where you believe you have a whistleblower case against your employer, it is important to be aware of potential pitfalls. 1. Lack of documentation Accurate and detailed documentation is key when considering a whistleblower case. Failing to keep records of incidents, conversations or any evidence related to the wrongdoing can significantly weaken your case. Remember, clear documentation provides a solid foundation for your claims. Take notes, save relevant emails and gather any other proof ..read more

Retaliatory discrimination in the workplace is a challenging issue that many employees face. This occurs when an employer takes adverse actions against an employee in response to the employee engaging in legally protected activities. While every workplace is unique, there are several common reasons why an employer might exhibit retaliatory discrimination. Understanding these causes, even if they do not justify your employer’s actions, can help you take the appropriate next steps. Reporting unlawful conduct One cause of retaliatory discrimination is when an employee reports unlawful conduct wit ..read more

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a pervasive problem that can affect employees’ well-being and job satisfaction. Individual actions contribute to sexual harassment. However, certain organizational factors can do the same. Understanding these factors is the first step in preventing and addressing this distressing issue. Lack of clear policies and reporting mechanisms Organizations that lack clear and comprehensive policies addressing sexual harassment are more susceptible to such incidents. When employees are unsure of what constitutes harassment or how to report it, they may not take acti ..read more

Wrongful termination cases arise when an employer terminates an employee unfairly or unlawfully. As an employee facing a wrongful termination case, you should understand the role of pretext in your claim. Pretext refers to your employer’s false justification for your termination. Understanding pretext Pretext is a false explanation for your termination. Employers use this to hide discrimination or retaliation. In most cases, the explanation provided is plausible at first glance though you may have evidence to disprove it. Recognizing hidden motives If you believe that you suffered wrongful ter ..read more

Tourism is the largest industry in Hawaii, bringing billions of dollars to the state’s economy each year. However, tourism and hospitality can be tough sectors to work in for several reasons. Many jobs require long hours for little pay, staff turnover can be high and sexual harassment is also quite prevalent in the tourism industry. Here are a couple of examples of sexual harassment that employees in Hawaii’s tourism industry may experience. Being accosted by hotel guests People who work in the hotel industry often perform jobs where they work closely with guests. For example, members of the h ..read more

Not all companies play perfectly by the book. The National Whistleblower Center found that whistleblowers can expose frauds much better than professional auditors can, saving shareholders and customers a lot of time and money. Whistleblowing, which involves reporting illegal or unethical activities within an organization, helps promote transparency and accountability in the workplace. However, there are two big misconceptions about whistleblowing, often discouraging individuals from speaking up. 1. It always ruins careers One prevalent misconception is that whistleblowing will inevitably lead ..read more

Age-related discrimination practices typically target those individuals who are in their 40s and beyond. With life expectancies in the United States averaging around 76 years, there are more older individuals in the workforce than ever. Age discrimination becomes more prevalent in the workplace as more adults prolong their working years and delay retirement. Recognizing the signs of age discrimination helps you fight for your rights and protect your position in the workforce. Subtle age-related references Some signs of age discrimination are subtle and may not even seem directed at you. Passin ..read more

As an employee with a good work ethic and morals, you know the importance of calling out unfair practices or infringements on workers’ rights. While state and federal laws prohibit businesses from retaliation against whistle-blowers, subtle retaliation still happens. If you have filed a complaint, look for the following changes in your workplace. 1. Exclusion from gatherings or meetings If your employer once expected you to attend regular meetings, such as for strategizing or discussing the happenings in your department, and suddenly stops, you may have a problem. That becomes especially clear ..read more