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"
RACISM IN THE WORKPLACE " July 2001
An article in Business Week describes an
extensive two month study on the rise of racism in the workplace.
While many companies, large and small, are attempting to mitigate
liability and improve working conditions through effective
harassment/ discrimination policies and training, many others have
ignored the seriousness of complaints and the escalation.
Complaints based on racism or national origin have more than doubled,
to nearly 9000 a year, since 1990, according to the Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Not only have employee complaints
soared but also have charges of retaliation. The millions
of dollars paid out by companies for race based awards has also
doubled in the past 10 years.
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ANALYSIS |
| This
should be a wake-up alert for employers. Harassment, left
unchecked, is frequently known to escalate to violence or,
as the statistics note, liability through litigation.
Employees should be judged on their performance, not on
their race or ethnic background. Harassment is not a
substitute for inadequate managerial, or organizational
skills. Poor performers need to be dealt with through
progressive discipline and good performers need to be
encouraged - whether or not political or racial views
differ. Corporate goals are profit oriented and employers
are not paying employees to fritter away their time
harassing co-workers or subordinates - thereby reducing
productivity and minimizing company image. Positive
outcomes toward success commence with the employee
selection process followed by effective policy and
understanding, that is supported from the top.
The increased reporting, as
noted by the EEOC, may be a result of employees greater
confidence in companies and the improved ability to deal
with such issues. HR and other company officials are in
the best position to determine if their individual company
is in a state of denial or is properly prepared and
protected.
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