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We all deserve respect and fair treatment at work, whatever our race, nationality or ethnic background. But too many people from Black and minority ethnic (BME) communities continue to face racism at work.

It’s against the law for an employer to treat you worse than your co-workers because of your race. They shouldn’t indirectly discriminate either, by having requirements that are harder for you to meet than for members of another racial group.

And you should never face harassment or bullying because of your race.

If you feel you’re experiencing race discrimination, you can take action to enforce your rights.

Very often, the best way to solve problems is to join with co-workers – preferably through a union – and try to reach agreement with your employers on how to make the workplace fairer for everyone. 

Are you a rep? You can find more practical advice on a range of workplace issues in our support for reps section

Common
questions
How am I protected against racial discrimination?
Under the Equality Act 2010 it is unlawful for employers to treat workers less favourably than others on account of their race, colour, nationality and/or ethnic origin.
I believe I have been refused promotion because of my race. Is this legal?
It is unlawful to refuse to promote you on the grounds of your race.
I think I am suffering race discrimination at work. What can I do?
All good employers will have an equal opportunities policy in place, as well as a policy banning bullying and harassment. Your employer should take a zero tolerance approach to all forms of racial discrimination and harassment at work. Get hold of a copy of the relevant policies.

Your employer needs to take an equally firm 'zero tolerance' approach to all abuse by third parties, such as customers, suppliers, patients or clients.
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