Experiencing discrimination can have profound psychological effects on individuals, impacting their mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Seeing it occur, can also be a distressing experience.
If you observe hostile behavior, it’s essential to take the appropriate action to foster a more inclusive workplace. Below we will discuss five steps that you should take if you witness discrimination.
Assess and Understand the Types of Discrimination
Before you jump to conclusions, it’s crucial to understand the various types of discrimination that can occur in the workplace. Discrimination can be based on race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or any other protected characteristic. Sometimes it may look like a minor bias such as exclusion and other times it could be challenging ground for termination.
Familiarizing yourself with these categories will enable you to recognize toxic behaviors more effectively and understand the context of the situation. This knowledge can also help you articulate the specifics of the incident when reporting it, making it clear that the behavior falls within discriminatory practices.
Support the Affected Individual
If you feel comfortable, you may want to approach the individual who experienced the discrimination. Offer your support and let them know that you witnessed what happened. It’s important to listen to their perspective and feelings without judgment.
Encourage them to express their thoughts on how they would like to proceed. Some individuals may appreciate having someone by their side, while others may prefer to handle the situation independently. Respect their wishes and provide reassurance that they are not alone.
Document the Incident
Documentation is a critical step in addressing workplace discrimination. Write down the details of the event while the memories are fresh. Include the date, time, location, individuals involved, and a description of what occurred.
If there were any witnesses besides yourself, make a note of their names as well. This documentation can be valuable if the situation escalates or if the affected individual decides to file a formal complaint.
Report the Incident
Most workplaces have policies in place to address discrimination and harassment. Familiarize yourself with your organization’s procedures, which may include informing a supervisor or human resources.
Encourage the affected individual to report the incident if they feel comfortable doing so. If they choose not to, you may still report what you witnessed.
Be sure to present the documented details of the incident factually and without emotional bias. This helps ensure that the complaint is taken seriously.
Follow Up
Lastly, after a report has been made, follow up with the affected individual to see how they are doing. It’s essential to maintain an open line of communication and be available to offer assistance.
Additionally, stay engaged with your organization’s efforts to promote inclusivity and address discrimination. By actively participating and fostering a positive workplace culture, you can promote diversity.
Final Words
Witnessing discrimination in the workplace can be challenging, but taking proactive steps can make a significant difference. By following the above, you can play a vital role in addressing discrimination and fostering an inclusive environment.
