Difference Between Harassment and Discrimination in the Workplace

Many employees fail to realize that there is a difference in harassment and discrimination in the workplace. Under federal and state regulations, it is unlawful to discriminate against or harass someone that works for the employer. Below are examples of differences between harassment and discrimination in the workplace.

Harassment in the Workplace

Harassment in the workplace includes the following.

• Telling jokes that are insulting about certain racial groups or certain genders
• Sending emails that are illicit or sexual
• Having screensavers or posters that are offensive or pornographic in nature
• Putting down or picking on someone’s religion or ethnicity
• Asking questions that are considered to be too personal about someone’s personal life or that are sexual in nature
• Openly being racial

Discrimination in the Workplace

Discrimination is a little different from harassment. The categories are listed below.

• Race
• Color
• Sex
• Religion
• National origin
• Age
• Sexual orientation
• Disability
• Racial
• Veterans status

If an employee feels that he/she has been discriminated against or harassed in the workplace, though they are different things, it is best to contact a lawyer, explain the facts, and see what can be done. No one, including the employee and the employer, should ever let discrimination or harassment continue. It is against the law and employees can have it stopped by filing charges against the employer alleging harassment or discrimination. Employees and employers should contact their lawyers today for more information.