Every employee deserves a stress-free workplace. And most employers take appropriate measures to ensure that the workplace is conducive. However, it’s not uncommon for an employee to encounter an incident of discrimination. Whether it is perpetrated by the employer, co-worker or client, workplace discrimination can impact your morale, self-esteem and productivity.
If you are a victim of discrimination at work, you can sue your employer for the resulting damages. However, you cannot bring the claim at your convenience. You must act within the statute of limitations period.
What amounts to discrimination at work?
Both state and federal laws protect you against discrimination based on your age, race, gender, religion and nationality of origin. If you are discriminated against based on these protected characteristics, then you need to let your employer know what happened so they can address the matter. And if they do not act then you need to explore your legal options.
What are your timelines for bringing a claim?
If you are a victim of workplace discrimination, then you may file a claim with either the Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). If you opt to take your claim to the WSHRC, then you must act within six months from the date of the discrimination incident. However, if you choose to file your claim under federal law, then you must do so within 300 days from the date the alleged discrimination happened.
Protecting your rights
Workplace discrimination is unacceptable. However, it’s important to understand that, like other legal claims, you have a limited time to bring your claim. If you fail to act within the statute of limitations period, you risk losing out on the damages you are rightfully entitled to.