Facing unjust treatment and discrimination at your workplace can be both painful and disheartening. Sadly, still many people face discriminatory termination, which not only results in loss of wages but significantly dampens opportunities for growth. In addition, it undermines self-worth.

However, it is important to understand that the termination is not the end. As a rightful citizen, there are certain steps you can take to stand against this injustice from your employer.

In this post, we have laid out an action plan for you after having suffered wrongful termination based on discrimination. Remember, you are not alone in this; taking informed steps can guide you toward a fair resolution.

Let’s dive in!

What are the Different Types of Discrimination?

Before taking any action, it is important to pinpoint the exact basis of your termination. Recognising the basis of discrimination is the first step in proving that your termination was unjust. It can occur for various reasons, including:

• Race or Colour
• Age (specifically if you are 40 years or older)
• Gender or Sexual Orientation
• Religion
• Disability
• National Origin
• Pregnancy

Once you have identified the reasons, you should start gathering evidence to support your claim. It could be emails, messages, or testimonies from your colleagues. You should take printouts and save the videos or calls as evidence against your company.

Why collect these, you must wonder? Well, because they help in paving the way to assert your rights and seek justice for the wrongful termination. After all, it’s your right to work in a place free of discrimination and understanding it’s basis is essential to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Get Legal Assistance

The next important step is to get legal assistance. The legalities of filing a claim may be complex due to the differences in federal and state laws. Therefore, a wrongful termination lawyer can be a strong ally for you. They know the laws well, both federal and state, and can guide you properly.

For example, in California, discrimination laws also cover smaller companies, which federal laws don’t. By smaller companies, it means any business having 5 or more employees. You can claim compensation for any discrimination, whether public or private.

A knowledgeable lawyer can greatly benefit from understanding and using these rules to your advantage. It’s wise to consult a wrongful termination lawyer to guide you in legal steps.

Working with a lawyer will help you navigate the rules and make a strong case. They can help you identify what you can claim compensation for. It can include lost wages, emotional distress, and sometimes even punitive damages.

Apply for Unemployment Benefits

Now that you have sought legal help and know things are in process, you should jump on to the next step. It is getting unemployment benefits since you’ve lost your job. These are funds the government provides to help you financially when you are without a job through no fault of your own.

What are the other benefits? Well, apart from financial aid, it sometimes offers help in finding a new job.

To apply for this, you must show that you lost your job due to reasons beyond your control, like a discriminatory termination. Also, apply as soon as possible to start receiving the benefits promptly. It’s a helpful resource to lean on, supporting you to bounce back stronger in your career.

Focus on Self Care

During this tough time, self-care is not just important; it is essential. Taking care of yourself means tending to both your mental and physical well-being.

You might feel a lot of emotions right now. Therefore, it is important to give space to your feelings. You can talk to a trusted friend or a professional counsellor. They can help you process what happened and find ways to cope.

Also, don’t forget your physical health. Simple actions like eating balanced meals, getting enough sleep, and exercising can be powerful tools in maintaining your health.

In simple words, self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. It prepares you to face future challenges with strength and a clear mind. It is all about creating a space of peace and recovery for yourself.

Bottom Line

Facing termination due to discrimination is deeply challenging, but remember, you’re not powerless. Following this simple and structured action plan will help in holding the responsible parties accountable and support you in rebuilding and moving forward with resilience. Understand that each step is crucial, whether filing a claim or self-care. Stay informed, assert your rights, and always prioritise your well-being. You deserve respect, fairness, and the tools to move forward positively.