Employers in Michigan have a duty to their employees to provide a safe work environment. Without adequate training or management, various unlawful and unfair situations can occur. When it comes to diversity in the workplace, it is wise for employers to set certain standards, but also to avoid unlawful policies and conduct. The following are some steps that employers can take to address diversity concerns in a post-pandemic corporate environment.
Examine Both State and Federal Law
The State of Michigan, as well as the federal government, have passed various regulations designed to prohibit discrimination and encourage diversity in the workplace. Following Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the concept of what diversity means in the workplace has changed substantially. In the 1960s, diversity referred to differences like skin color, national origin, race, religion, and sex. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on these factors. In recent years, the concept of diversity expanded to include people with disabilities, the elderly (i.e. age), and veterans. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 applies to employers with 15 or more workers.
Some other regulations address diversity in the workplace, which include (but may not be limited to) the Equal Pay Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. If you have a business located in Michigan, you must remain up to date with Michigan legislation. For example, Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibits employment practices that discriminate against an individual based on a variety of factors.
Adequately Train Managers and Workers
The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has the task of enforcing federal laws that prohibit discrimination against job applicants or employees due to their race, color, religion, sex, age, national orientation, or disability. This agency recommends that managers at a company, as well all employees, are sufficiently trained on equal employment opportunity laws. Successful implementation of training programs can provide all people at a company with the information necessary to perform legally and ethically, free from improper behavior. As part of a training program, it is critical to remind all employees of the various policies that are in place. All employees must be held responsible and accountable for their behavior, and face swift corrective action if they violate any laws, policies or rules designed to prevent discrimination.
Contact a Knowledgeable Corporate Attorney Today
Businesses must navigate critical issues of diversity all the time, and those may have become even more critical during the past year of pandemic. Contact Resnick Law PC today to schedule a free case evaluation.
