Job Discrimination and the Pursuit of Happiness

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” This iconic quote is one of the most memorable statements in the Declaration of Independence. It is widely applied in civil rights endeavors. While this important belief is literally etched into our national identity, however, it is still not fully embraced in every facet  of society. When job discrimination occurs, for example, employers are denying victims the inalienable right to “the pursuit of happiness.” In these instances, the Law Office of Perry Piñón can help. 

Job Discrimination is Unequal Access

It is important to note that the Declaration of Independence does not say we have the rights to “Life, Liberty, and happiness”. Rather, it lists our rights to “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”. The authors understood that happiness is not an inalienable, human right. Emotional, relational, and financial success are not a guarantee in life. Still, we have the right to pursue happiness. We have equal access to this right of pursuit. This is true regardless of our race, gender, religion, etc.  

The Civil Rights Act was enacted to reclaim the equal access that is afforded to United States citizens by the Declaration of Independence. Under the Civil Rights Act, discrimination in the workplace is prohibited. Employment discrimination can take on several forms, but it comes does to unacceptable prejudice. When individuals are treated unfairly in the workplace as a result of discrimination, they are denied equal access to the pursuit of personal achievement and financial success.

Proving Discrimination

While the Civil Rights Act serves to protect against employment discrimination, it can be incredibly challenging to prove that discrimination occurred. Victims must demonstrate that the employer or business owner had discriminatory intent, and this will require evidence. Victims may also be able to verify their claim if there are other employees who have suffered or are currently suffering the same type of discrimination. An experienced employment attorney will work with you to compile evidence. From there, the attorney will draw a detailed picture of the injustice occurring in your work environment. Proving discrimination may be a challenge, but it is made easier with the help of law experts.

Navigating Job Discrimination Charges

If a victim chooses to engage in an employment discrimination lawsuit, the claim will likely be investigated by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is an agency of the federal government that oversees and investigates charges in workplaces of 15 employees or more. State agencies may also investigate if state legislations are involved. An employment discrimination attorney can be incredibly helpful when it comes to navigating the complexities of discrimination lawsuits.

The Pursuit of Happiness

Everyone has an unalienable right to the pursuit of happiness. Employment discrimination is an assault on this right. If you are a victim of job discrimination that is seeking recompense, contact the Law Office of Perry Piñón for support.