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What legal steps can I take if I am being harassed or discriminated against in the workplace in Illinois?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

If you are being harassed or discriminated against in the workplace in Illinois, there are several legal steps you can take to protect your rights:

  1. Report the harassment or discrimination to your employer: Most employers have policies and procedures in place to handle complaints of harassment and discrimination. You should report the conduct to your supervisor, HR department, or another designated individual. Make sure to document the incident(s) and the steps you took to report it.
  2. File a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): The EEOC is a federal agency that investigates claims of employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. You can file a charge with the EEOC within 300 days of the discriminatory conduct. The EEOC will investigate the charge and may file a lawsuit on your behalf if necessary.
  3. File a complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR): The IDHR is a state agency that investigates claims of discrimination based on additional protected categories including marital status, military status, ancestry, and unfavorable discharge from military service. You can file a complaint with the IDHR within 180 days of the discriminatory conduct.
  4. Speak with an attorney: An employment law attorney can advise you on your legal rights and options, and may be able to represent you in court if necessary. They can also help you navigate the EEOC and/or IDHR process.
  5. Keep detailed records: Make sure to document any incidents of harassment or discrimination, including the date, time, location, and names of any witnesses. Keep copies of any emails, texts, or other communications related to the harassment or discrimination.

It is important to note that there may be limitations or exceptions to the above advice depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Additionally, if you are retaliated against for reporting harassment or discrimination, you may have additional legal claims. If necessary, consider seeking further legal advice from a licensed attorney.