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What are my rights as an Ohio employee if I am experiencing workplace harassment or discrimination?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

As an Ohio employee, you have certain rights under state and federal law that protect you against workplace harassment and discrimination. The following are some of the key legal protections you may have:

  • Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: This federal law prohibits employers with 15 or more employees from discriminating against employees or job applicants on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This means that if you experience harassment or discrimination based on any of these factors, you may have a claim under Title VII.
  • Ohio Fair Employment Practices Act: This state law provides similar protections to Title VII, but applies to employers with four or more employees. Ohio's law also prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, disability, genetic information, military status, and pregnancy.
  • Ohio Revised Code 4112.02: This Ohio law prohibits workplace harassment on the basis of any protected characteristic, including those listed above. Harassment can include unwanted sexual advances, comments, or touching, as well as other types of behavior that create a hostile work environment.

In order to take action against workplace harassment or discrimination, you should first report the behavior to your supervisor or someone in HR. Your employer has an obligation to investigate your complaint and take appropriate action to stop the behavior. If your employer fails to take action or retaliates against you for making a complaint, you may have the right to file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC).

If you believe that you have been subjected to workplace harassment or discrimination, you should consult with an experienced employment law attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options. Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, you may be able to pursue a claim for damages, including lost wages and emotional distress. Your attorney can also help you navigate the complex legal process and develop a strategy to achieve a positive outcome.