Due to the racial and religious clashes that have occurred in Paris, Denmark and in the Middle East, a large number of British Asians and Muslims have felt a change in attitude in their places of work. Complaints of unfair dismissal and racial harassment has been reported on social media sites and blogs; uttering a feeling of helplessness and fear for their wellbeing. As a woman of colour, I know all too well how one can be judged and treated unfairly because of events that have happened to my race, even though I hadn’t taken part in it. It is unjust, prehistoric and has no place in our democratic country. It is not right that a person should be turned into a victim because of the result of someone else’s actions. A message to all those who are distributing racist comments to innocent members of society: do not let your fear of what has been portrayed in the media warp your attitude towards other members of that particular race. They cannot control the actions of their peer race abroad. Not every Muslim believes in the extremist version of their religion, and it is ignorant for individuals to think otherwise.
For those who have been affected by racism in their workplace, here is some advice on how to handle the matter:
Remain calm – If you start to verbally abuse the culprit, it will make you no better than they are. Tell them how their comments make you feel, but do not stoop to their level.
Question their fear – Make them aware of their problem (most of them won’t realise the problem lies within themselves).
Document every account of their abuse – this can be done by using a webcam in an office, or making a diary of their callous words. Audio and visual evidence is better, but as long as it is documented, it will be able to hold up in court.
If the matter cannot be settled civilly i.e. reporting it to a manager, then legal action is the next step. With all the evidence you have collected, you should have a strong enough case to stand up in court. If the workplace won’t deal with them, let the law decide their punishment.
Talk – Talk to friends, family or even a counsellor. This could be affecting you more than you know. Think of your mental wellbeing first and foremost.
