When an employee makes a complaint about discrimination or harassment in the workplace, they have the right to be protected from retaliation as a result. This means that they should not fear being punished in some way by their employer when their employer learns that they have made a complaint.
However, retaliation does continue to be a significant issue in the workplace. This is why it is important that those who have recently made a complaint make themselves familiar with the definition of retaliation. They should also know how to take legal action to assert their rights.
What type of behavior counts as retaliation?
Retaliation counts as any type of behavior that is taken as a result of the complaint made and that is negative in nature. For example, if you have been underperforming at work and you have been fired as a result, but you made a complaint shortly before you were fired, likely, this would not count as retaliation since the firing was connected to your work performance. However, if you were verbally abused by your manager as a result of filing a complaint, this would count as a form of retaliation.
How should I react to an instance of retaliation?
The most important thing is that you recognize retaliation for what it is. You should then consider taking action to file a retaliation claim against your employer.
Having a clear understanding of your rights as an employee in Washington, DC can help you to effectively protect yourself and your career. You must be proactive when reacting to an instance of retaliation.
