What are the common types of discrimination?

Discrimination in the workplace is illegal and can come in many forms. In Michigan, employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees or job applicants based on certain characteristics, such as age, race, gender, disability, national origin, or religion. Discrimination can include treating someone unfavorably in hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, training, or other conditions of employment based on a protected characteristic. One type of discrimination is called disparate treatment, which occurs when someone is treated differently than another due to their protected characteristic. For example, a job applicant of a certain race may be rejected even though they are the most qualified. Another form of discrimination is disparate impact, where a policy or practice has an unequal effect on a protected group, regardless of intent. Harassment is also a form of discrimination. This can include offensive remarks about a person’s protected characteristic, such as their race or gender. Hostile work environment harassment occurs when there is persistent or pervasive harassment based on a protected characteristic that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. Employers in Michigan are also prohibited from discriminating based on a person’s genetic information. This includes any information about an individual’s health history or characteristics that are inherited genetically, such as their family medical history. Discrimination is a serious issue in the workplace and can take many forms. It is important for employers to be aware of their legal obligations so that they can prevent any kind of discrimination in their workplace.

Related FAQs

Can employers ask job applicants about criminal convictions?
Are employers required to provide employees with a minimum level of benefits?
What is an independent contractor?
What is the WARN act?
Can my employer reduce my pay without informing me?
What is the difference between a contractor and an employee?
Are employers allowed to require employees to submit to a polygraph test as a condition of employment?
What rights do employees have under employment law?
What are the rights of employees who are members of a religious organization?
Are employers allowed to require employees to sign a non-compete agreement?

What are the common types of discrimination?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts