In a professional setting, discrimination against individuals with disabilities can be particularly harmful. This discrimination often surfaces in the form of inadequate accommodation in the workplace.
You might understandably wonder if the absence of such accommodation is the same as disability discrimination. It is a nuanced topic that requires understanding multiple facets of employment law.
Defining disability discrimination in employment
Disability discrimination in the workplace occurs when employees receive unfair treatment due to their disability. This unfair treatment can manifest in various ways. These include unequal pay, denial of promotions or harassment based on disability. Failing to provide reasonable accommodations for workers with disabilities can also be discriminatory.
The significance of workplace accommodation
Accommodation in the workplace ensures that everyone has equal access to employment opportunities. It protects the basic right for all employees to be able to perform their job duties effectively. Workplace accommodations can include modifications to the physical workspace or adjustments to job duties.
The impact of lack of accommodation in the workplace
When employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations, it causes a negative impact. These circumstances can result in a qualified worker being unable to succeed in the workplace. By definition, reasonable accommodations are not typically difficult for an employer to implement.
In the city of Seattle and all across the state of Washington, there are resources available to help individuals with disabilities who face discrimination. These resources have the backing of the Americans with Disabilities Act and enforce your right to live free of discrimination.