Discrimination and harassment at work

You'll need

• A notebook or notes app to write down what happened, when, and who saw it
• Your company's policies, if it has them

What to know

1. Know who's covered. The laws apply to applicants, employees and former employees, whether full-time, part-time, seasonal or temporary, at most employers with at least 15 employees (EEOC).
2. Know your five basic rights: to work free of discrimination, to work free of harassment, to complain without punishment, to ask for reasonable workplace changes for religion, disability or pregnancy, and to keep your medical and genetic information private (EEOC).
3. If you're being harassed, act early. Tell the person their behavior is unwelcome if you feel safe doing that. If you don't, or it doesn't stop, tell your employer (EEOC).
4. Find your company's harassment policy. It should say who handles complaints. If you're uncomfortable going to that person, talk to your manager or another manager (EEOC).
5. Write down what happened, with dates, places and witnesses, and keep copies of messages. Notes made at the time help any complaint.
6. To file with the EEOC, start an inquiry on the EEOC Public Portal or call 1-800-669-4000 (EEOC).

If it doesn't work

• Punished for complaining? That's retaliation, and it's illegal, even if the conduct you reported turns out not to be illegal (EEOC).
• Deadline coming up fast? Call 1-800-669-4000 and ask for an immediate interview (EEOC).
• Small employer? State and local laws may protect you more than federal law, especially at smaller employers (EEOC).

Good to know