Discrimination: your rights (2024)

It is against the law to discriminate against anyone because of:

  • age
  • gender reassignment
  • being married or in a civil partnership
  • being pregnant or on maternity leave
  • disability
  • race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin
  • religion or belief
  • sex
  • sexual orientation

These are called ‘protected characteristics’.

You’re protected from discrimination:

  • at work
  • in education
  • as a consumer
  • when using public services
  • when buying or renting property
  • as a member or guest of a private club or association

You’re legally protected from discrimination by the Equality Act 2010.

You’re also protected from discrimination if:

  • you’re associated with someone who has a protected characteristic, for example a family member or friend
  • you’ve complained about discrimination or supported someone else’s claim

Action against discrimination

You can do something voluntarily to help people with a protected characteristic. This is called ‘positive action’.

Taking positive action is legal if people with a protected characteristic:

  • are at a disadvantage
  • have particular needs
  • are under-represented in an activity or type of work
Discrimination: your rights (2024)

FAQs

How do you respond to a discrimination claim? ›

The notice may ask you to provide a response to the charge (a "position statement"). This is your opportunity to explain why the claims in the charge are incorrect or not illegal. The EEOC encourages you to raise in your position statement any factual or legal defenses that you believe are applicable.

What is the right to discrimination? ›

It ensures that no one is denied their rights because of factors such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property or birth. In addition to those grounds, discrimination on certain other grounds may also be prohibited.

What is the human right of discrimination? ›

You have a right to work free of discrimination. This means that your employer cannot make job decisions because of your race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity) national origin, disability, or genetic information.

How do you answer a discrimination question? ›

You could respond by saying something like “My personal life will not interfere with my professional responsibilities.” Leave the Interview. If you feel the interviewer is asking an inappropriate or discriminatory question, you can refuse to answer the question and excuse yourself from the interview.

What to do if you are being discriminated against? ›

You can file a complaint with OFCCP if you think you have been discriminated against in employment, or in applying for employment, because of your race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or for asking about, discussing, or disclosing ...

What is it called when your manager treats you unfairly? ›

Discrimination at work

Discrimination is when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfairly because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.

What is considered unfair in the workplace? ›

Examples of Being Treated Unfairly at Work

Discrimination due to race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. Spreading false rumors. Pay disparities despite equal qualifications and experience. Refusing reasonable accommodations for disabled employees.

What makes a disability discrimination? ›

Disability discrimination occurs when an employer or other entity covered by Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (which protects private and state and local employees) or the Rehabilitation Act (which protects federal employees) treats a qualified employee or applicant unfavorably because of disability ...

What qualifies as discrimination? ›

§ 1981 (“Civil Rights Act of 1866”) prohibits discrimination based on race and national origin in the ability to “make and enforce contracts,” which has been interpreted to apply to many aspects of employment. California's main anti-discrimination law in employment is the Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”), which ...

What are 5 basic human rights? ›

Human rights include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more. Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination.

What is human rights violation? ›

Human rights are 'rights inherent to all human beings' that a state is obliged to protect and promote. A state violates human rights when it fails to take steps to promote and advance them.

How do you respond to discrimination? ›

Being the target of discrimination can stir up a lot of negative feelings including anger, sadness, and frustration. Mindfulness and meditation can help you get in touch with your feelings without judgment. Find community. Experiencing discrimination can be isolating.

What happens if the EEOC finds discrimination? ›

If the EEOC finds discrimination, we will work with your employer to fix the situation. You could receive money damages as part of that process. We also can seek promotions, reinstatement, and other workplace changes for you.

What is an example of a discrimination statement? ›

___Organization__ is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate in the terms, conditions, or privileges of employment on account of race, age, color, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, or religion or otherwise as may be prohibited by federal and state law.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Amb. Frankie Simonis

Last Updated:

Views: 6035

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (76 voted)

Reviews: 83% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Amb. Frankie Simonis

Birthday: 1998-02-19

Address: 64841 Delmar Isle, North Wiley, OR 74073

Phone: +17844167847676

Job: Forward IT Agent

Hobby: LARPing, Kitesurfing, Sewing, Digital arts, Sand art, Gardening, Dance

Introduction: My name is Amb. Frankie Simonis, I am a hilarious, enchanting, energetic, cooperative, innocent, cute, joyous person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.