As February brought an end to Black History Month, the nation was once again reminded of the outstanding achievements of African Americans. The month was peppered with a proud homage to American’s great black artists, abolitionists, scientists, educators, horticulturists, ecologists, filmmakers, actors, musicians and authors.
One event depicted in cultural media exhibit this month was the struggle of people of color who have provided service to their countries on one front, only to find the dichotomy of racism on another.
With all the fanfare and embracing of diversity, the contributions of African Americans should be considered above all at the workplace and especially in service positions involving hazardous circumstances.
One ex-New York Police Department officer worked in his position for seven years. He claims throughout that time, he was subjected to repeated racial slurs and derogatory remarks. The officer, now retired, had served on an elite team of an underwater unit charged with scuba diving investigations in the city. His discrimination suit was filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
The retired 48-year-old officer claims he was taunted and victimized by racial remarks and discriminatory actions and behaviors from his first day on the job, all the way to his last. He is the only man of color out of the 29-man diving unit.
One legal expert claims that the high incidence of racial stereotyping has exacerbated tensions and frictions already in the air in New York City, whose controversial policy of stop and frisk has come under attack for escalating racial tensions, even among law enforcement.
The claimant issued a statement through his representative stating arresting officers are not as impartial as the law suggests they should be. The NYPD has declined to comment until they have had the opportunity to thoroughly review the details of the race discrimination complaint.
If you feel you are employed by a workplace that perpetuates negative racial stereotyping, your civil rights have been violated. Aside from inflicting personal offenses, if an employer allows discrimination, you deserve to inform yourself of your right to work in a fair and equitable place free from ignorance.
Source: Miami Herals, “Ex-NYPD police diver claims discrimination” No author given, Mar. 04, 2014
