Three Ways to deal with racism in the workplace?

Racism is a significant issue in our society, and unfortunately, it still persists in the workplace. People of colour are disproportionately impacted by workplace discrimination, which affects their mental health and wellbeing. Research shows that racism can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions, which can significantly impact a person's ability to perform at work.?

It is essential to tackle racism in the workplace and create a safe environment for all employees. In this article, we will discuss the prejudice people of colour still face in the workplace, the impact of racism on individuals, and three different ways to deal with racism in a professional way if you are experiencing it at work.?

Prejudice in the Workplace Prejudice is a negative preconception or attitude towards a group of people based on their identity, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and religion. In the UK, people of colour experience higher rates of prejudice in the workplace than their white counterparts.?

A report from the Trades Union Congress (TUC) found that black and minority ethnic (BME) workers are more likely to experience bullying and harassment at work than their white counterparts. The study also revealed that BME workers were more likely to report unfair treatment by managers and colleagues, leading to feelings of isolation and low job satisfaction.

The Impact of Racism on Individuals?

Racism can have a significant impact on a person's mental health and wellbeing. Experiencing racism at work can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. In some cases, it can also lead to physical health problems such as headaches, insomnia, and high blood pressure. Studies have also shown that experiencing racism in the workplace can lead to reduced job satisfaction, decreased motivation, and a higher likelihood of leaving the job. This can be particularly problematic for people of colour, who may face more barriers when trying to find new employment opportunities.?

3 Ways to Deal with Racism in the Workplace?

Speak up?

If you experience racism in the workplace, it is essential to speak up and report it to your employer. Your employer has a duty of care to provide a safe working environment for all employees, and this includes taking action to prevent and address any incidents of discrimination. You can start by speaking to the person who is causing the problem if you feel comfortable doing so.

Sometimes, people are unaware that their behaviour is racist, and they may be willing to change their ways once they understand how their actions are affecting others. If you don't feel comfortable speaking to the person directly, or if the behaviour continues even after you have spoken to them, it may be necessary to escalate the issue. You should report any incidents of racism to your manager or HR department. Your employer should have policies in place for dealing with incidents of discrimination, and they should investigate and take appropriate action.?

It is also worth considering whether there are any support groups or organisations that can offer advice and guidance on dealing with racism in the workplace. Some organisations, such as the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), provide support for employees who are experiencing discrimination.

Educate

Another way to deal with racism in the workplace is to educate yourself and others.?Often, people are not aware of the impact their words or actions can have on others. By educating yourself and others about the impact of racism, you can help to create a more inclusive and respectful workplace. You can start by reading books and articles about racism and discrimination in the workplace. There are also online courses and training programs available that can help you to understand the issues better. You can also take steps to educate others by calling out racist behaviour when you see it. It is essential to do this in a constructive and respectful way, as people are often more receptive to feedback when it is delivered in a non-confrontational manner.

Take Care of Yourself?

Dealing with racism in the workplace can be stressful and emotionally draining. It is essential to take care of yourself and seek support if you need it. This could involve talking to a friend or family member, seeking support from a mental health professional, or joining a support group for people who have experienced racism in the workplace. It is also important to take breaks and engage in self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or reading.?

Your Rights at Work?

If you experience racism in the workplace, you have legal rights that protect you from discrimination. The Equality Act 2010 makes it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their race or ethnicity. If you experience racism at work, you should report it to your employer as soon as possible. Your employer has a duty to investigate the incident and take appropriate action to prevent it from happening again. This could involve disciplinary action against the person responsible or changes to company policies to prevent future incidents. If your employer does not take action to address the racism, or if you experience any negative consequences as a result of reporting the incident, you may be able to make a claim for discrimination. You can seek advice and support from organisations such as the Equality Advisory Support Service or Citizens Advice Bureau.?

Conclusion?

Racism in the workplace is a significant issue that can have a significant impact on individuals' mental health and wellbeing. It is essential to tackle racism in the workplace and create a safe environment for all employees. In this article, we have discussed the prejudice people of colour still face in the workplace, the impact of racism on individuals, and three different ways to deal with racism in a professional way if you are experiencing it at work.?

By speaking up, educating yourself and others, and taking care of yourself, you can help to create a more inclusive and respectful workplace. Remember, if you experience racism in the workplace, you have legal rights that protect you from discrimination. Don't suffer in silence – speak up and seek support if you need it. Together, we can work towards creating a more equal and inclusive society.