Include the following in your complaint letter: Your name, address and telephone number. The name, address, and telephone number of your attorney or authorized representative, if you are represented. The basis of your complaint. The date(s) that the incident(s) you are reporting as discrimination occurred.
However, discrimination is a state of mind and, therefore, notoriously hard to prove. Sophisticated employers are well aware that discrimination is illegal. Thus, most cases are established through circumstantial evidence.
It will not only benefit you, but your co-workers as well because it will likely make your workplace safer by creating a better environment for all. When you sue, you can also obtain a legal remedy for the discrimination you have faced. Employers often offer a significant sum in these cases.
One situation where discrimination may be permitted is when a particular characteristic, such as gender, age, or religion, is considered a bona fide occupational qualification (BFOQ). This means that the characteristic is essential for the individual to perform the job effectively and safely.
Treating one or more members of a specified group unfairly as compared with other people.
A simplified description of the legal definition of discrimination is when a person is treated disfavourably or when a person's dignity is violated. The disfavourable treatment or the violation of a person's dignity must also be related to one of the seven grounds of discrimination.
Sexual orientation. Gender identity, gender expression. Medical condition.
Legally, the term “discrimination” covers only actions that are taken against people because they belong to certain protected classes such as age, gender, race, and the many others that will be discussed in detail throughout this chapter.