Studying Workplace Stereotypes

After reports from Asian American government workers that they are not receiving equal and fair treatment, hindering their upward career climb, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is investigating.

According to an article in the Washington Post, some AA workers have said they were being denied time off to attend conferences or to take advantage of training opportunities. Meanwhile others complain that their agency does not promote or sponsor specific AA programs to the same degree that they do for other minority groups.

While AAs represent just under 6 percent of federal employees, the issue is not the amount overall but that few make it to top levels.

Columnist Steven Barr writes:

"...relatively few Asian Americans make it into the highest ranks of the government -- 146 out of 6,349 career members of the Senior Executive Service, according to a congressional audit released in May."

The EEOC's findings are expected next year. The one question we find most interesting that will be looked at is whether or not AAs are hesitant or reluctant to file discrimination complaints. Culturally this would make sense, and it could be a significant problem.

Have you ever faced workplace discrimination? What have you done?
Read the Wasabi Woman's column about Stepping out of Stereotypes for workplace success for some tips.