Sexual discrimination in the workplace, which involves treating someone unfairly due to their gender or sex, is a serious issue that affects many people. And while it may seem obvious in some instances, sexual discrimination is not always easy to identify.
The following are a few common examples of sexual discrimination at work.
Unequal pay
According to Forbes, women make 11% less than men at work, even when performing the same job and working the same number of hours. This constitutes a clear case of sexual discrimination, as an employer should not pay a male worker more than a female employee when they have similar responsibilities and qualifications.
Unfair promotion practices
Gender should not be a factor in raises and promotions. When it is, it highlights an unjust employment practice rooted in sexual discrimination. All staff should have access to internal employment opportunities, regardless of physical characteristics.
Hostile work environment
Offensive comments or inappropriate behavior related to gender creates a hostile work environment. Allowance of these behaviors fosters an environment where workers feel unsupported and distressed.
Pregnancy discrimination
Pregnant women deserve the same treatment as other employees in the workplace. Accordingly, employers should not deny a pregnant woman raises or promotions due to her pregnancy. In the same respect, employers cannot fire a pregnant woman simply because she is with child.
Retaliation
All workers have the right to report instances of sexual discrimination or harassment. When an employer punishes staff for rightfully reporting issues, it is retaliation. Employees must feel safe to voice their concerns without fear of backlash, and retaliation negatively impacts the feeling of safety.
Everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive in their careers, regardless of their gender or sex. By recognizing the various forms of sexual discrimination, you will be in a better position to pinpoint wrongdoing in your workplace.