In Ohio, there are several laws that protect employees from harassment and discrimination in the workplace. The Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforce these laws.
Under the Ohio Civil Rights Act, it is illegal for employers to discriminate against employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, disability, age (40 or older), genetic information, or military status. Employers are also prohibited from retaliating against employees who complain about discrimination or who participate in employment discrimination investigations.
Harassment based on any protected characteristic is also illegal under state and federal law. Harassment can be verbal, physical, or visual and can include offensive jokes, slurs, or other derogatory comments or conduct. Harassment becomes illegal when it creates a hostile or abusive work environment or when it results in an adverse employment action.
If you experience harassment or discrimination from an employer or coworker, you should document the behavior and report it to your supervisor or HR representative. If the behavior continues, you can file a complaint with the OCRC or the EEOC. To be protected from retaliation, you should also make sure to report the behavior to the appropriate agency within 180 days of the incident.
If you believe you have been the victim of harassment or discrimination in the workplace, it may be helpful to speak with an attorney who specializes in employment law. An attorney can advise you on your rights and options for legal recourse, such as filing a lawsuit or negotiating a settlement with your employer.
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