As a Michigan worker, a variety of state and federal laws are in place to protect you against discrimination at your job. While these laws can’t prevent employers and coworkers from engaging in discriminatory behaviors, they do provide a path for you to seek justice.
Understanding Your Rights Under Michigan Law
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employer mistreats an employee based on personal characteristics protected by law. Michigan employers cannot discriminate based on a worker’s:
- Race
- Skin color
- National origin
- Sex
- Gender
- Religion
- Age
- Height
- Weight
- Marital status
- Disability
- Pregnancy
- Illness
Discrimination can take many forms, including unfair hiring practices, unequal pay, wrongful termination, harassment, or denial of promotions. Employers must also take reasonable steps to accommodate employees with disabilities.
Both Michigan and federal laws prohibit workplace discrimination. State protections come from the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act and the Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act. Federal laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, provide similar protections. These laws give you legal options to challenge the discrimination.
Filing A Complaint With The Michigan Office Of Civil Rights Or The EEOC
If you believe you are experiencing workplace discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR). This agency enforces state anti-discrimination laws and investigates claims related to unfair treatment based on protected characteristics. Typically, you must file a complaint with the MDCR within 180 days of the discriminatory act. The agency will review and investigate your claim and may attempt to resolve the issue through mediation or legal action if necessary.
You also have the option to file a federal complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which enforces federal anti-discrimination laws. In most situations, you must do so within 180 days unless a state agency enforces a similar anti-discrimination law, in which case you have 300 days to file a complaint. The EEOC may investigate, offer mediation, or issue a letter allowing you to file a lawsuit against your employer.
Additional Steps To Take To Fight Back Against Workplace Discrimination
In addition to filing a complaint, there are other steps you can take to protect your rights. Keep detailed records of any discriminatory incidents, including names, dates, times, and any communications related to the behavior. Report the issue to your employer’s human resources department to inform them of the discrimination.
Most importantly, consider working with a Michigan employment attorney. They can review the facts of your case, guide you through the steps involved in filing a complaint, and represent you in any legal proceedings. If your case leads to litigation, your lawyer can help you seek compensation for lost wages and other losses resulting from the discrimination.
Contact A Michigan Employment Law Firm Today
If you believe your employer has discriminated against you, you need a tough and experienced Michigan employment law firm to support you through your next steps. Fagan McManus, P.C., has represented Michigan workers for over 25 years and secured millions for employees harmed by their employers’ actions. Contact us today for a free initial consultation to share your story.
