Women in Male-Dominated Workplaces Report Higher Rates of Gender Discrimination and Harassment.
Women employed in male-dominated industries such as finance, construction, sales, manufacturing, information technology, mining or transportation face a variety of challenges and barriers to success. Unfortunately, women in these fields and others commonly experience unequal pay for the same work, sexual harassment, discounted achievements, being passed over for growth opportunities and promotions, isolation, and inappropriate or harassing comments about their appearance.
Despite these obstacles, women have made significant strides towards success in male-dominated fields, but there is still more work to do. At MSB Employment Justice, we support all employees,
regardless of age, gender, race or ethnicity, who experience discrimination and we are here to help take a stand against employer misconduct and gender discrimination in the workplace.
Minnesota state and federal laws prohibit discrimination based on sex. We would like to help you understand your options when facing gender discrimination at work. Some of the most common
examples of sex or gender discrimination in the workplace include:
- Sexual harassment. Inappropriate sexual comments or physical harassment. Requests for sexual favors in return for a promotion, better pay or other benefits.
- Being overlooked for promotions, raises or bonuses.
- Employers assign responsibilities and tasks based on a person’s gender rather than on their abilities.
- Lack of representation and exposure. Very few females in leadership or mentorship roles.
- Discrimination based on pregnancy, taking maternity leave, or status as the primary caregiver to children or other family members.
- Discounted Achievements and higher performance standards.
- Continuous criticism for appearance, behavior, tone of voice or body language due to gender stereotypes.
- Unequal pay or other benefits for the same work or job title as a male colleague.
- Not being hired or terminated because of gender, age, gender identity or parental status.
What can I do if I am experiencing gender discrimination at work?
- Take notes or start a journal at home which includes dates and your experiences with discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment.
- Save copies of emails, text messages, or documents that relate to discrimination or harassment.
- Report the discrimination in writing to your human resource department or management.
- Save copies of your written report. Retaliation for reporting sex or gender discrimination is unlawful and if you have concerns about your work environment you should contact an attorney.
Regardless of the industry you work in, you are not alone. Gender and sex discrimination at work can cause feelings of isolation, frustration, fear of retaliation for reporting, cause a lack of productivity, and even create changes in mental health. You deserve to feel comfortable and safe in your workplace. Contact our experienced gender discrimination attorneys for a confidential consultation. We will assess your situation and provide valuable insights into the best options for you.
