How To Handle Workplace Disability Discrimination
Posted on: 30 June 2019
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Getting through life with a disability is hard enough, but it can be especially painful if someone is singling you out because of it. If you feel you have been the victim of discrimination in the workplace because of your disability, you may have the right to bring a legal claim forward or even seek financial compensation. To that end, here are some tips to keep in mind when you first notice possible discrimination in the workplace.
Cool Your Temper While You Start Taking Notes
Being discriminated against because of a disability can be infuriating. You obviously didn't choose to get your disability and for someone to talk down to you or attack you in any way because of it is simply uncalled for. But it's important to keep your temper down in the immediate aftermath of the incident. You can of course state your objection to the situation, but don't start yelling. You don't want to be seen as hostile or give your employer a valid reason to discipline or dismiss you.
Instead of freaking out, get out a notepad and pen instead. Write down what's happened and be sure to include the date, time and any nearby witnesses. This will give you the ammunition you need to move forward with a discrimination claim.
Contact an Attorney
Before you move forward, you'll want to reach out to an expert in disability law. A disability discrimination attorney can help you assess the situation and figure out your next steps. You'll likely need to review the Americans with Disabilities Act to make sure your case applies. Then, your attorney can contact your employer, which will let all parties know that you are quite serious about this situation. With a little luck, you might be able to get the situation overturned or even receive financial compensation without even stepping foot inside a courtroom. Lawyers are pretty good at getting people to act quickly like that.
Continue to Document As Needed
There's a chance your case might not be handled right away by your company or that you will indeed have to pursue long-term legal action. If that's the case, start keeping a running journal of what you encounter in the workplace on a daily basis. Any additional cases of discrimination can be used to bolster your claim. Just remember to stay calm and not let the situation get the best of you.
Contact a disability discrimination attorney today for more information.