Tough Economic Times See Increases in Discrimination Claims
02 September 2012Author: Discrimination lawyer Alena Shautsova
As economic conditions change, sometimes job markets favor employees and sometimes they favor employers. The supply/demand ratio in the current market shows a greater supply than demand for employees, and unemployment rates are higher than the nation has seen for decades. Such conditions make it an employer's market. Employers can be choosier when filling positions because the employment pool is comparatively large. Yet, similar to the 2001 recession period, these tough financial times have also seen a rise in discrimination complaints.
In January, 2012, the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) reported that employment discrimination in the private sector had hit an all time high for year-ending 2011. The EEOC reported the following employment discrimination statistics for the fiscal year 2011:
- 99,947 charges of employment discrimination
- $455.6 million in relief through the EEOC's administrative program and litigation, which includes mediation
- A $51 million increase in relief over the past three fiscal years
- 5.4 million individuals benefiting from changes in workplace policies or practices
- Record levels for EEOC mediation program resolutions at 9,831, and $28 million more than in 2010
- 300 EEOC lawsuits resulting in $91 million in relief
The EEOC also reported that while racial and sexual discrimination allegations declined in 2011 compared to 2010, disability and age discrimination allegations increased. The Disabilities Act (ADA) produced the highest increase in monetary relief of any protected class category.
If you face workplace discrimination or harassment issues, discuss your situation with a New York immigration lawyer. Find out about your rights and get legal help to fight discrimination.
The Law Office of Alena Shautsova is an immigration law firm serving clients in Brooklyn, New York City, Long Island, Manhattan, Queens, the Bronx and surrounding communities.