If your employer discriminates against you because of your age, or you experience violations of your rights as a job applicant, it is essential to go over your options. Age discrimination turns the lives of many people upside down each year, and this mistreatment remains far too common. In certain fields, discrimination based upon a worker’s age is especially prevalent.
It is helpful to take a look at statistics on age discrimination in order to develop a better understanding of the scope of this problem.
Different age groups and discrimination charges
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission published insightful data on Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) charges from different age groups. According to the EEOC data, more people between the ages of 55 and 64 (48%) filed age discrimination charges in comparison to those between 40 and 54 (37%) and those 65 and over (17%). However, it is essential to address unlawful discrimination regardless of your age group if you are over the age of 40.
Gender and age discrimination
The EEOC reports that in 2017, 51% of ADEA charges came from women, 46% came from men and gender was not identified for 4%. It is important to note that workers, as well as job applicants, can experience age discrimination regardless of their gender, racial background and other characteristics. Sometimes, workers experience discrimination for multiple reasons, such as those who become pregnant, have certain religious beliefs or come from a certain racial background.
If you have dealt with discrimination because of your age, or any other unlawful reason, you need to firmly stand up for your rights.