Being young does not meant that you deserve discriminatory treatment at work. You have the right to be respected and not be discriminated against. You have the power to report incidents of harassment or discrimination so that employers can be held accountable.
YOUR RIGHTS
- You have the right to not be discriminated against or harassed in the workplace based on your race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
- You have the right to a workplace free from sexual harassment.
- You have the right to a workplace free from bullying and intimidation.
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Gender Identity & Expression: You should not be discriminated against (not hiring/promoting or firing) or treated poorly based on your gender identity or expression. Discrimination and treatment can include behavior such as:
- Asking personal questions about your body, gender identity or expression, or gender transition
- Denying you access to restrooms and other gender specific facilities that are consistent with your gender identify or expression
- Deliberately misusing your preferred name or gender-related pronoun
- Causing you distress by disclosing to others that you are transgender
- Posting offensive pictures or sending you offensive communications
Sexual Harassment: You have the right to work in an environment that is free from unwanted attention of a sexual nature. This includes sexual touching, grabbing, pinching or being intentionally brushed up against in a sexual manner. You should not receive obscene comments, looks or teasing.
General Discrimination & Harassment: In addition to the types of harassment and discrimination mentioned above you should not be discriminated against at work based on your race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, or pregnancy. This means that you should not be harassed, made fun of, bullied, singled out, gossiped about or denied opportunities based on any of these categories.
IF YOU ARE HAVING ISSUES
If you are having issues or experiencing discrimination then you should file a claim with the DC Office of Human Rights. You should do this immediately. Make sure to keep any evidence including-pictures, videos and emails.
Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment Program: If you experience any illegal treatment at your summer worksite you should immediately report the incident to the MBSYEP team. The team will help you to complete a preliminary report and assist with getting you transferred to a new worksite. A DOES Equal Employment Opportunity investigation will be done and if your case cannot be resolved within thirty days then your case will be transferred to the DC Office of Human Rights.
You can also seek assistance through local employment justice organizations.