Federal law forbids any form of discrimination in relation to employment. These laws are enforced by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission which makes it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their race, religion, sex, or age. A report released by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission reveals data about the top cases of employment discrimination. Based on this report, we’ve compiled the top 5 categories with details of what you need to know about the Federal Employment Discrimination Laws.

Retaliation Discrimination

In 2016 there were 42,018 reported cases of retaliation discrimination, making it the most common form of workplace discrimination. Retaliation discrimination is when an employee feels afraid to complain or stand up for themselves because they may be punished by their employer. This can be in the form of a demotion or some other form of disciplinary action.

Race/Color Discrimination

Race and color discrimination are second on the list with a reported 35,411 cases filed in 2016. Racial discrimination involves being overlooked for a job opportunity, terminated, demoted or harassed because of race. In cases of race an individual may be singled out or hear stray comments or statements with a racial overtone.

Sex Discrimination

Sex discrimination involves the act of treating an individual unfairly because of their sex. This law also includes members of the transgender as well as members of the LGBT community and applies to many aspects of employment including pay, job assignments, promotions, and layoffs. The EEOC reported 26,934 cases of sex discrimination cases in 2016.

Disability Discrimination

Discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities is prohibited. In addition to being overlooked for positions they may be qualified for, an individual may also find themselves in a situation where an employee may refuse to make reasonable accommodations for those with disabilities. Unfortunately, this is still a common occurrence today. The EEOC reported 28,073 cases of disability discrimination in 2016.

Age Discrimination

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act was passed in 1967. It protects people who are 40 years or older from employment based on their age. This act protects job applicants as well as employees. Age discrimination comes in the form of pressuring older employees to retire and overlooking them for new positions. Comments by employers about wanting a fresh face or youthful energy may be a sign of age discrimination. According to the EEOC, there were 20,857 reported cases of age discrimination.

If you believe you have been targeted for discrimination in your workplace, reach out to the discrimination lawyers at the Michigan Legal Center. Our team can provide you with expert legal advice and counsel. Contact us online or by phone at (800)-961-8477.