Disability discrimination in the workplace can take many forms, from direct harassment and exclusion to more subtle forms of bias and disadvantage. It can be demoralizing and hurtful for disabled employees and have severe legal and financial consequences for employers. 

Both employees and employers need to understand their rights and responsibilities under disability discrimination laws and take proactive steps to prevent and address discrimination in the workplace. 

Employees must be aware of some common types of disability discrimination and practical strategies for dealing with discrimination. An employee encountering disability discrimination should contact a lawyer and check this out to take legal action against the responsible. 

Tips for dealing with disability discrimination in the workplace: 

• Understand your rights

Understanding your rights as a disabled employee is crucial when dealing with disability discrimination in the workplace. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act provide legal protections against discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. 

These laws require employers to provide reasonable accommodations to allow disabled employees to perform their duties and prohibit discrimination based on disability status. Knowing your rights can help you identify instances of discrimination, communicate your needs to your employer, and take appropriate action to protect your rights.

• Document incidents

Documentation is crucial when dealing with disability discrimination in the workplace. Keeping detailed records of any incidents of prejudice or bias, including dates, times, and witnesses, can help support any potential claims or grievances. 

This documentation can also help identify patterns of discrimination and establish a timeline of events. Solid evidence can strengthen your case if you must file a complaint or pursue legal action. Keeping these records securely and sharing them only with trusted individuals is essential.

• Seek support

Seeking support is an integral part of dealing with disability discrimination in the workplace. Consider joining a disability advocacy group or seeking help from a disability rights organization for guidance and resources. 

These groups can provide advice, education, and emotional support. Additionally, legal assistance may be available to help with filing complaints or pursuing legal action. Seeking support can also help you feel less isolated and empower you to take action to protect your rights.

• File a complaint

If informal attempts to resolve disability discrimination in the workplace are unsuccessful, filing a complaint may be necessary. It can be done with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a relevant state agency. 

A complaint should include details of the incident(s) and any evidence to support the claim. The EEOC or agency will investigate the complaint and determine if discrimination occurred and may attempt to mediate a resolution or file a lawsuit on behalf of the employee.