Disabilities can often result in some people having to live their lives differently, but it does not mean that their lives are less fulfilling or less important than able-bodied individuals. Of course, as someone with a disability, you may have faced your fair share of situations in which it seemed that other people simply did not understand that you were capable and useful despite your disability. While some may have had good intentions and simply overstepped important boundaries, others may have directly made you feel less-than.
In particular, you may believe that your employer and co-workers have subjected you to discrimination in the workplace. Unfortunately, disability discrimination is not uncommon and can come in both subtle and obvious forms. If you do believe others have treated you unlawfully in the workplace, you may want to consider your options.
Know your rights
First, it is important that you understand your legal rights in relation to your disability and the workplace. The law prohibits your employer from discriminating against you due to your disability, and that includes preventing a prospective employer from not hiring you for a job that you can perform despite your disability. If you need some assistance completing the tasks associated with the job or need adjustments to a workspace to accommodate for a wheelchair or other necessary equipment, you can make reasonable requests for those accommodations.
What does discrimination look like?
As mentioned, disability discrimination can come in various forms, and if you have experienced any of the following examples while at work, your employer or co-workers may have violated your rights and the law:
- Your employer refused to make reasonable accommodations.
- Your employer, manager or co-workers make offensive comments or jokes about you and your disability.
- Your employer demands that you discuss your disability even though it is your right to keep that information private.
- Your employer passes you over for promotions or pays you less than others in similar positions simply because of your disability.
Experiencing such mistreatment can have a serious effect on your mental health and feelings of safety in the workplace. If your employer or coworkers have subjected you to unjust treatment and have not taken measures to correct that treatment after complaints, you may have reason to file a discrimination lawsuit against your employer. Gaining information on your options from a Colorado employment law attorney may be useful.
