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Unfair treatment can negatively affect us and make us feel unworthy of respect or love. Sadly, many people facing injustice feel confused and do not know how to respond to such treatment. And when it lingers, they accept it as a part of their lives. But this shouldn't be so. We all deserve to feel included and safe, regardless of our background, economic status, or race.
Suppose someone who caused you physical harm is refusing to take responsibility, or you're facing unfair treatment in the form of outright discrimination or bullying. In that case, you can do something about it. This article will show you how to take action and stand tall when injustice prevails.
Seek Legal Advice
Often, victims of injustice don't know who to talk to about their challenges, so they remain quiet and let it slide. Other times, when they try to raise their voices, the perpetrators of the injustice try to intimidate them into sweeping it under the carpet. Even in cases where victims demand compensation, they are sometimes offered much less than they deserve. That's why it is crucial for victims of injustice or injury due to someone else's negligence to take the empowering step of seeking legal counsel without delay.
According to Coffey McPharlin, a team of Fort Lauderdale attorneys, "The goal of seeking legal advice and compensation after an accident is not just about addressing immediate financial needs; it's about securing the victim's future. This includes covering the cost of ongoing medical care, compensating for lost earnings due to the inability to work, and ensuring the victim has the necessary support to overcome the trauma and emotional distress caused by the accident."
Even if the unfair treatment is at your job, you can seek legal advice when handling it. Start by documenting the incidents and gathering any evidence that supports your claim. Then, consider reaching out to your union or an employment lawyer for guidance. Although most workplace-related cases of unfairness don't reach this point, you can consider taking this step if you've tried other actions but aren't getting justice. Don't accept unfair treatment simply because you aren't sure if it meets the definition of discrimination legally. You have the right to seek support and take action.
Think Before Acting
Being unfairly treated can be quite provoking to the point where you're tempted to act instantly. This is our natural human response. But acting in the heat of the moment isn't always the best way to defend yourself. Instead of doing that, try to step away from the situation and the urgency of response to give yourself time to mindfully choose your words, actions, and stance on the situation.
You will avoid regrets and be much more effective if you use your logical reasoning. For example, if you are in a car accident and the other driver tries to blame you when it is clearly their fault, the best action to take would be to gather as much information about the scene as you can. Engaging the other party in heated arguments can escalate the situation and make you say or do something wrong.
Keep Your Records
One of the most crucial steps to take when you're experiencing discrimination is to document and maintain detailed records of the discriminatory incidents against you, including the names of the people involved, if you have them. Also, document the times and dates of the incidents, and if it's a work-related scenario where emails can play a role in potential lawsuit investigations, go ahead and save those email trails. This will not only help you remember the details but also provide a sense of security and confidence in your case.
Ensure that you have records of unfairness towards you and witnesses to support your claims. If it is at your workplace, inform the human resources manager and follow the laid down your company's harassment policy. If the person being unfair to you is in a position of authority, consider reporting to another supervisor or manager. This will help avoid bias and ensure that your voice is heard. Depending on your organization, speaking to your direct manager or HR representative might be the official channel. Employers have the responsibility to investigate employee's complaints reasonably to prevent conflict of interest and ensure their rights are upheld.
Attend to Your Mental, Physical, and Emotional Needs
Mistreatment can be traumatizing to the point where it affects you mentally, emotionally, and physically. That's why you must pay attention to self-care during such a challenging time and get all the support you need. Talk to your friends, family members, or spiritual advisors. If you need further care by a therapist, ensure you get the help you need. Don't feel pressured to share details of your unfair treatment on social media because people online are usually harsh with their words. Make sure you are emotionally and mentally ready, and speak to your legal representative before doing so.