Women's Rights in the Workplace

Although women have made great advancements in the workplace in the past several decades, women still face hurdles in their careers. Though most people would like to believe workplace discrimination against women is an outdated trend, statistics prove otherwise.

• The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) received nearly 15,000 sexual harassment complaints last year. Nearly 90% of these cases involved women who were harassed by a male co-worker or supervisor.


• The EEOC received nearly 900 complaints of wage discrimination last year.


• In 2006, women made only 77 cents for every dollar earned by men.


• Single mothers earn between 34% and 44% less than their male counterparts.


• The Fair Pay Restoration Act, which addressed the issue of pay discrimination, was turned down by the Senate in 2007.

Workplace Rights

By law, all employees are entitled to equal pay for equal work; 12 weeks of unpaid pregnancy leave; and freedom from gender discrimination and harassment in the workplace. Still, many women are being denied their basic rights in the workplace.

Types of workplace discrimination:

• Sexual Harassment: Learn what constitutes sexual harassment in the workplace and what you can do if you are a victim.


• Workplace Discrimination: Find out what laws prohibit wage discrimination. Also, learn what options you have if you were discriminated in wages, hiring, firing or promotions because of your gender.


• Pregnancy Leave: Read about federal laws that allow women at least 12 weeks of unpaid leave because of pregnancy. Find out what you can do if your employer or potential employer has discriminated against you because of your pregnancy.

Discriminated Against at Work?

You have options if you have been harassed in the workplace or discriminated against because of your sex. Our employment attorneys can fight to make sure your rights are protected. If you need help with a workplace discrimination claim, click here to consult with a workplace attorney.