Ohio Firefighter Files Discrimination Claim

Ohio Firefighter Files Discrimination Claim

Race discrimination is common in the workplace. Many people still judge others who are different, and it’s unfortunate because people of all skin colors deserve a chance to work. Almost all race discrimination claims are filed by non-white employees, such as Mexicans, African-Americans, Asians and Indians. Whites seldom face race discrimination, but that is allegedly the claim that a former Ohio firefighter is making against his co-workers.

The man was hired as a firefighter in 2000. In April 2016, he was involved in an altercation with two co-workers—one man and one woman. The man, who is black, has since retired. The race of the woman is unknown.

The firefighter is suing the Cleveland fire chief, assistant fire chief and the city for damages caused by the reverse discrimination. The man claims that he filed a complaint after the altercation, but it was mishandled. The man claims he was ignored, threatened, intimidated and even assaulted by city officials after filing the complaint. The man could no longer work in such an environment and resigned a year later, in July 2017.

The firefighter’s 54-page lawsuit claims that the man was retaliated against solely because he is white. The two co-workers involved did not cooperate with workplace regulations after the altercation took place. They failed to submit the appropriate forms to human resources.

City officials ignored the man’s complaint and requests for updates. He was also threatened and harassed at his home. He was denied a promotion as well.

The firefighter was also put on a program identifying him as an employee who used excessive sick time. However, the man did not use sick time until he started facing retaliation. He used the sick time to avoid going to work.

The firefighter also filed a claim with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission. Tired of the hostility, he resigned in July.

What is Race Discrimination?

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, race discrimination involves treating an employee unfairly solely based on their race. Shockingly, race discrimination can occur even if the victim and perpetrator are the same race or skin color.

While teasing, infrequent comments or minor jokes are not covered under the law, the victim can file a claim against an employer if the harassment gets out of hand and causes a hostile work environment. The victim also has a valid claim if he or she is suddenly demoted or fired despite having no work performance issues.

Get Legal Help From a Columbus Race Discrimination Attorney

People of all races and colors can experience discrimination in the workplace. There are many types of discrimination that can occur, and all affect a person’s ability to do their work. These hardworking employees may even be denied raises and promotions simply because of what they look like.

If you believe you are a victim of discrimination in the workplace, contact the lawyers at Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC to file a claim against your employer. Give us a call today at (614) 463-9790 to schedule a consultation.