08/20/2014 // Discrimination // Carson Croft // (press release)
Many in America’s aging population face challenges when it comes to finding and maintaining employment today, particularly a number of people who have in recent years been forced to postpone retirement or rejoin the workforce after retiring due to the economy. In fact, some statistics suggest older Americans have been disproportionately affected by employment issues such as layoffs and long-term unemployment since the recession hit the U.S. in 2007.
Source: NELP Report “Economy in Focus: Long Road Ahead for Older Unemployed Workers”
“Four in ten older unemployed workers were out of work for at least one year in 2011. The share of workers experiencing unemployment lasting for one year or more increased most dramatically among older workers from 2007 to 2011.”
To read further, visit http://www.nelp.org/page/-/UI/2012/NELP.older.workers.3.9.2012.pdf?nocdn=1.
Aside from economic issues, some challenges faced by older workers are linked to false labels and stereotypes. Many workers over 50 get passed over for jobs or promotions because of negative assumptions such as they are less capable of performing certain job functions, or do not need work if they are close to retirement age. This type of stereotyping sets up a breeding ground for age discrimination.
Over time, numerous court cases have been highlighted in the media that illustrate the problem with age discrimination on a broad scale. One such recent case involves a college sued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Source: The Chicago Tribune Report “EEOC: Harold Washington College passed over job applicant because of age”
“Chicago’s Harold Washington College refused to hire a 66-year-old woman full-time because of her age, according to a federal lawsuit filed Thursday by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.”
To read further visit http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-eeoc-harold-washington-college-passed-over-job-applicant-because-of-age-20140731-story.html.
The employment discrimination lawyers of Eberstein & Witherite say that these types of cases unfortunately occur with more frequency than many would expect. Denying someone the right to work simply because of their age is not only morally wrong, it is illegal, and victims of age discrimination can take action against it. Sometimes; however, it can be difficult to determine whether one has been a victim of age discrimination or an employer has chosen not to hire or promote an older employee, or has decided to terminate their employment based on just causes.
The following are five signs of age discrimination that can help employees recognize whether it has occurred:
· Being referred to as “old” on the job, or pressured to retire. Some employers make these types of suggestive comments and justify it as ok if they are attempting to promote a “younger” company image
· Not being chosen for a promotion for a position one is more qualified for than a younger employee chosen for the job
· Being disciplined for actions that younger employees are not given any consequences for
· Differing or preferential treatment being granted to younger employees with regards to pay and accommodations
· Sudden negative job evaluations or write-ups after an employee reaches a certain age
Eberstein & Witherite discrimination lawyers can help those who have experienced age discrimination in Texas understand what steps can be taken regarding their legal rights if they see these or other signs. Employees can document such items as evidence if they choose to file a complaint. Individuals can contact the law firm directly at any time for a free, confidential consultation with an age discrimination lawyer.
Media Information:
Address: 3100 Monticello Dallas, TX 75205
Phone: 866-774-5410
Url: Discrimination.com