The prevalence of different types of harassment and discrimination still exist in the United States. Laws have been past to protect workers, such as the disabled. The passage of these laws is only one step in the process of reforming or changing what is going on inside the work places across the nation.
Many people have grown up without the influence or being taught about equal rights, the law, and what is acceptable and suitable ways of treating your coworkers. In order for the culture to continue changing in the various workplaces, both public and private, education needs to accompany the laws that have been enacted.
The history of the American society is not one of acceptance of all people based on gender, race, or sexual orientation. It may not be easy to find slaves in the United States, but it doesn’t change the fact that we need to treat every individual as equal to us, in all ways, regardless of differences that may be seen on the surface.
In public employment, in many cases, employees are required to take classes, making sure that they are educated on the law. It is important that private companies also make sure to explain to employees what is acceptable behavior. Posting the laws on the wall is one step. Having discussions and educating individuals what is acceptable is even better. The process of social change seems to be a slow one. Most people today believe that harassment is unacceptable and they do not want the behavior to take place. Training from human resources on these topics will help continue the change. Harassment laws continue to change, these laws are not so set and understood, such as laws concerning theft. Every Human Resources Department should continue to develop education for a safer workplace.
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