As an employee, you are entitled to a workplace environment that is devoid of any form of discrimination. Unfortunately, friction is not inevitable in the workplace. And sometimes, these disagreements can cross the line – legally speaking.
If you find yourself in a situation where you have to engage in a protected activity or speak up about something illegal at work, you might end up dealing with the “consequences” of your action. If one of these consequences is retaliatory, then you need to fight for your rights. But how do you know your employer or someone in authority is getting back at you for standing up for what is right?
Understanding workplace retaliation
Workplace retaliation happens when an employee is punished for asserting their rights against discrimination, a violation of the law or for whistleblowing. Here are two signs you need to look out for if you suspect that your employer might be retaliating against you:
A change of work schedule – Your employer has a right to plan the workforce as they deem fit in response to the changing work demands. However, if a work change clearly seems to punish or frustrate you, then you need to ask questions. They could be getting back at you.
Exclusion from crucial meetings and work events – It’s not uncommon for a department to hold regular meetings and workshops to catch up, plan and make strategic decisions. If you are suddenly sidelined for these meetings, yet they are crucial for your work, then you could be a victim of workplace retaliation. The same applies to exclusion from work-related social functions.
Workplace retaliation can be frustrating, to say the least. If you are a victim of unacceptable retaliation, you deserve justice. Contact the legal team at Licata & Yeremenko today to discuss your options.