With the rapid growth in minority populations in Connecticut over the past decade, a significant amount of attention should be given to addressing and preventing workplace discrimination. In a study conducted by the University of Connecticut, it was found that bias can have a significant effect on hiring decisions for minority applicants. The study also revealed that many hiring managers were more likely to hire someone who looked like them or shared their background as opposed to those from different backgrounds.

And as a result, nearly 25% of Connecticut residents report experiencing discrimination at work. A new survey by the American Association of University Women found that four out of five women and two out of three men reported that they had personally experienced some form of work-related gender discrimination, such as sexual harassment and unequal pay. In these times, an employment discrimination lawyer Connecticut can be of great help to protect your rights at the workplace.

We will now see the most common type of discrimination prevalent at workplaces in Connecticut.

• Age discrimination

Age discrimination in the workplace has been around for decades. It is estimated that roughly 20 million Americans are currently dealing with age-related employment discrimination. It’s the same story in Connecticut, where employers may find themselves in violation of the state’s bias laws. The Connecticut General Statutes prohibits employers from discriminating against an individual because of their age by limiting their jobs, wages, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment.

• Gender discrimination

Gender discrimination is a problem in workplaces all over Connecticut. The gender wage gap, lack of representation in management positions, and general inequality are just some of the problems women face at work. Women are underrepresented in management positions nationwide, but according to Forbes, they are especially underrepresented in Connecticut, with only 6% of executive-level jobs being filled by women. Women also make less than men for the same or similar work in most industries.

• Racial discrimination

Racial discrimination at work is a hot topic and controversial subject. Whether or not it’s illegal to discriminate in the workplace racially, many employers still do. This type of discrimination manifests itself in all sorts of ways-in hiring practices, job assignments, promotions, layoffs, and compensation. It also shows up as a lack of opportunities for training, networking, and development.

• Pregnancy discrimination

Women entering the workforce in Connecticut may experience pregnancy discrimination while working at their workplace. A recent study has found that about 2 in every three pregnant workers reported experiencing some form of pregnancy discrimination, and 1 in 5 women had been fired, demoted, or had seen an increase in the number of their hours cut back. This is a serious issue for many employees, especially those who are on short-term contracts or work part-time with no job security to speak of.