Although there are many laws in place with a goal to prevent discrimination in the workplace in the United States, the sad fact is that gender discrimination still occurs, both in subtle and nonsubtle ways. Sometimes, it is acts of microaggressions that create a negative atmosphere in the workplace, and these are what need to be challenged from a legal perspective if real change is to be made.
Many people that are recipients of microaggressions and subtle acts of discrimination in the workplace may not want to take action for fear of being perceived as overreacting. However, the law provides protection from the more subtle types of gender discrimination, and it is important that victims feel empowered to stand up for their rights in this regard.
How am I legally protected from gender discrimination?
There are many protections in place in the state of Maryland when it comes to gender discrimination. This may be in very obvious ways, such as refusing to hire women or men for a certain position. A more subtle example of gender discrimination could be demanding that women wear certain attire to work while not requesting the same as men, or routinely promoting a certain gender at work while not promoting equally qualified employees of another gender. Being able to show a clear pattern in the gender pay gap can also be a reason to take legal action against gender discrimination.
If you believe that you have been a victim of gender discrimination in the state of Maryland, it is important to understand how the law applies to your particular situation.