People in Illinois may think that racial discrimination in the workplace is a thing of the past, something that was overcome during the civil rights movement. However, instances of racial discrimination still occur in the workplace, even in this day and age. In fact, one alleged instance of racial discrimination recently took place in a UPS shipping facility in Illinois.
A black worker at a UPS shipping facility was recently subjected to what he claims was a hostile work environment when he saw some ropes hanging that he believes looked like nooses. He felt intimidated and thought that the action was done purposely. He, along with other seasonal employees, are bussed to the facility from Chicago. He says the work environment is racist and that some employees state they will be happy when this program ends.
However, UPS claims that those were actually temporary pull ropes, used when chain pulls break. UPS claims that they took down the ropes after the man complained. However, the man claims that he reported the situation to a manager, who did not address the situation for a number of days. The man was ultimately granted a week’s worth of paid time off, counseling and he was sent to work at a different facility in Chicago.
Racism in the workplace should not be tolerated. It can create a hostile work environment that no employee should be subjected to. Workers who believe they were the victims of racial discrimination in the workplace may want determine if they can take legal action. An employment law attorney may be of assistance in such situations.
Source: wgntv.com, “UPS employee says he found nooses hanging at suburban facility,” Gaynor Hall, Nov. 24, 2017