If you believe you are being discriminated against at work, it is a good idea to document the abuse. This can be key to holding the perpetrators accountable for their actions and getting the justice you deserve. Consider recording the following information:
When did the incident happen?
Note the date and the time that any incidents occurred. Record where the incident occurred. Was it in or out of the office?
What happened and who witnessed it?
Describe the incident in detail. Record what happened immediately before, during and afterwards. Be sure to name the perpetrator and any potential witnesses. Record as best you can the specific words that were said.
What was the employer’s response?
If you report the event to your employer, record the date and time that you reported it, who you reported it to, and how you made the report (in writing or verbally). If made verbally, record what you said. Record your employer’s response – did they investigate? Did they interview witnesses, request documents, or take any other actions? Did the employer take any steps to protect you from further discrimination? What was the outcome?
Preserve evidence.
Print out hard copies of any emails, text messages, or other documentation relevant to the discrimination that you are experiencing.
If you believe that you are being discriminated against at work, we strongly recommend that you consult an attorney to discuss your options and ensure that any claims you may have are preserved. In the meantime, documenting what happened and preserving any evidence can help you build a strong case should you decide to pursue a claim in the future.