Rise in Workplace Discrimination Complaints

The number of workplace discrimination complaints filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission jumped 10 percent from 2007 to 2009 as some workers hurt by recession-spurred layoffs, furloughs and pay cuts fought back on the grounds of discrimination.

The key for employers facing these challenges is to make sure that any cost-cutting measures don’t single out a particular group — especially a protected class, such as minorities, women or workers over 40.

Arizona’s immigration climate also adds to that mix, with Latino and Anglo workers both aware that current laws and the specter of possible raids could influence personnel decisions, leaving businesses vulnerable to legal actions.

“Employees are particularly wary of employment actions during times of uncertainty. As they watch the economy and continued signs of improvement, they also are watching their workplaces. Hopeful for improvement, employees also are on guard for further cutbacks,” said Chris Mason, an employment attorney in Phoenix for Atlanta-based law firm Fisher & Phillips LLP.


Source: Phoenix Business Journal

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