The state of Washington has enacted specific laws to protect prospective and current employees from employer discrimination. According to the Revised Code of Washington, Section 49.60.030, individuals have the “right to obtain and hold employment without discrimination.”
Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, some employers choose to go against those specific rules and employ discriminatory tactics against individuals or groups of people. In this case, an employment attorney can provide legal assistance in filing a claim for compensation.
PROTECTIONS AGAINST DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE
Washington law sets forth specific criteria detailing what entails discrimination in the workplace. Under Washington law, employers must not discriminate against employees based on:
Race
Color
Creed
Religion
National origin
Sex
Age
Disability
Sexual orientation
Honorably discharged veteran or military status
The required use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability
Additionally, employers are prohibited from discriminating against individuals as a form of retaliation.
WHAT CONSTITUTES EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION?
Based on these criteria, there are actions that an employer may not take during the course of the individual’s employment. The law specifically prohibits an employer from:
Discharging or barring a person from a job
Discriminating in compensation or other terms or conditions of employment
Printing, circulating or using any discriminatory statement, advertisement, publication, job application form or making any inquiry in connection with prospective employment that is discriminatory
Furthermore, Washington prohibits employment agencies from using discriminatory strategies or tactics as well.
EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION IS PROHIBITED EVEN BEFORE EMPLOYMENT BEGINS
Although an individual may not have begun working for a specific company yet, he or she still can be the target of discriminatory practices. An employer cannot refuse to hire an individual based on any one of the previous reasons, meaning that the law even protects prospective employees.
In order to demonstrate that an employer failed to offer you employment due to discrimination, you must present evidence to prove this fact. In this case, a legal professional with experience in the field can be of great help.
DON’T KEEP QUIET FOR FEAR OF RETALIATION
Employment discrimination occurs, yet some people may choose to stay silent about it for fear that they may experience retaliation for making a complaint. In order to protect employees, Washington law prohibits employers from taking retaliatory action against employees who have filed a complaint or against any individuals who have opposed discriminatory practices in the workplace.
SPEAK TO AN EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEY IN EVERETT
Being the target of discriminatory practices in the workplace can be unpleasant and emotionally damaging, leaving you with questions about the future of your career. If you faced discrimination at work or believe you have been discriminated against in the hiring process, contact the employment attorneys at the Deno Millikan Law Firm, PLLC as soon as possible. We can help you gather evidence in your case to file a claim for compensation. Please give us a call today at
425-259-2222 or fill out our online contact form.