It is an unfortunate truth that disability discrimination remains present in many workplaces across the country. Some examples of disability discrimination, such as a blatant lack of accommodation, are easy to recognize immediately.
Other signs of disability discrimination in the workplace, however, are much more subtle and difficult to notice. By being aware of these telltale signs and watching for them at your job, you can take timely action to fight back against disability discrimination before a malicious employer can do more harm.
1. Uneven communications
Everyone has the right to receive equal respect in the workplace, but you might notice that workers with disabilities at your job are the recipients of harsher tones or even belittling remarks from management. If this is the case, it is an example of harmful discrimination.
2. Inappropriate interview or survey questions
An employer’s discriminatory inclination can sometimes shine through as early as the job interview but be aware also that some employers might gauge employee satisfaction through occasional surveys. Suffice it to say that if your employer ever poses inappropriate questions about an employee’s disability under any context, it can be a sign of subtle discrimination.
3. Unequal pay
Perhaps the most blatant yet easily-hidden sign of workplace discrimination is unequal pay. While employers might take steps to discourage or impede workers from discussing wages with one another, Washington’s Equal Pay & Opportunities Act protects employees’ rights to open wage discussions.
If you or one of your peers becomes the victim of disability discrimination in the workplace, take heart in knowing that the law is on your side. You have options for bringing a malicious individual to justice and securing compensation for your pain and suffering.