Preventing Workplace Discrimination

When it comes to discrimination and harassment, legal compliance should be the minimum standard that leadership teams set for their organizations. It is important to foster a culture where it is widely understood that these violations are completely unacceptable. However, even in workplaces where proactive policies and procedures are in place to prevent problems, it only takes one individual to infringe upon another’s rights. When these instances occur, it is the responsibility of HR professionals to have a solid understanding not only of their companies’ policies, but also the legal requirements for how to proceed.
In this Assignment, you will respond to a set of questions on the historical significance of antidiscrimination laws, HR’s role in handling discrimination, and the benefits of diversity and diversity programs. You will review case studies and scenarios from the lens of an HR professional and apply HR practices to address the discrimination and harassment issues found within them.
To prepare for this Assignment:

• Review this week’s Learning Resources, including the three case studies/scenarios that you will use to complete this week’s Assignment: “Case 3-1 English Only: One Hotel’s Dilemma,” the John and Amala Scenario, and the Melvin, Julie, and Tina Scenario.
• Refer to the Academic Writing Expectations for 2000/3000-Level Courses as you compose your Assignment.

By Day 7

Submit your responses to the following prompts.

• Select one of the following antidiscrimination legislations:
  • Equal Pay Act of 1963
  • Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
  • Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967
  • Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974
  • Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978
  • Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
  • Civil Rights Act of 1991
  • Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994
  • Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004
  • Title II of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008
  • Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009
  • Based on the legislation you selected, explain the impact of this historically significant legislation on HR practices. Specifically, in 150 words (2 paragraphs):
  • What is significant about this legislation?
  • What are the behaviors that led to this legislation being adopted?
  • What penalties may be assessed for violating it?
• Illustrate the role of HR in addressing discriminatory behaviors. Specifically, in 150 words (2 paragraphs):
  • Define two types of discrimination.
  • For each type of discrimination, provide an example of how an HR manager could implement measures to prevent the discrimination or address the discrimination if it were to occur.

For the following question, refer to the “Case 3-1 English Only: One Hotel’s Dilemma” PDF (also located in this week’s Learning Resources).

• Does this policy violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act? Why or why not? (75 words, or 1 paragraph)

For the following question, consider the “John and Amala Scenario” PDF (also located in this week’s Learning Resources):

• Based on this scenario, identify at least three inappropriate or illegal behaviors that Mr. Brian exhibited in this interview. For each behavior, explain why it was inappropriate or illegal and how he could have avoided or corrected his mistake. (150 words, or 2 paragraphs)

For the following questions, consider the “Melvin, Julie, and Tina Scenario” PDF (also located in this week’s Learning Resources):

• Explain whether Tina’s behavior is considered bullying and what, if any, legal consequences may be applicable. What changes would you, as an HR representative, recommend to improve the atmosphere in this work environment? (75–150 words, or 1–2 paragraphs)
• What constitutes sexual harassment in the workplace? What are some potential consequences of this type of behavior occurring within an organization, and how can HR play a role in addressing and preventing sexual harassment? Provide specific examples to support your answer. (75–150 words, or 1–2 paragraphs)
• Explain at least four components of diversity in addition to race and culture. Describe some groups or characteristics that may be represented in today’s workplace, as well as the benefits they can bring to an organization. (150 words, or 2 paragraphs)
• Analyze the use of diversity programs and their effectiveness within organizations. In your analysis, describe the benefits and challenges of implementing a diversity program and the importance of having a set of guiding best practices. Are there better ways to promote diversity in an organization than diversity programs? Provide one or two examples of alternatives and explain your rationale for selecting them. (150–225 words, or 2–3 paragraphs)