Resources

Those we discussed on the Podcast: 

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• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) 

  • Website:  www.oregon.gov/boli

  • Information on your rights as an employee, file complaints, and get guidance on workplace harassment, discrimination, wage issues, and more. They offer a range of resources to help protect workers and ensure fair treatment on the job. It’s a great place to start if you feel your rights are being violated.

• www.worker.gov 

  • This site covers a wide range of workplace rights and issues, including harassment, discrimination, and wage concerns. It’s a comprehensive tool that helps you understand your rights and what steps you can take if they’re being violated. They also provide a phone number you can call for direct assistance, so you can get the support you need to address any workplace challenges you’re facing.

 

Additional Resources: 

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1. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

• What it is: The EEOC is a federal agency that enforces laws prohibiting workplace discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and more.

• How to use it: You can file a complaint (called a "charge of discrimination") with the EEOC if you believe your rights have been violated.

• Website: www.eeoc.gov

2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

• What it is: OSHA protects workers from unsafe working conditions, including harassment or bullying that affects health and safety.

• How to use it: If harassment or a toxic work environment is affecting your health, you can file a complaint with OSHA.

• Website: www.osha.gov

3. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)

• What it is: The NLRB enforces labor laws related to collective bargaining and employee rights to organize.

• How to use it: If you feel you're being retaliated against for speaking up about workplace conditions, you can file a charge with the NLRB.

• Website: www.nlrb.gov

4. State Labor Agencies

• What they are: Each state typically has its own labor department or division that can investigate claims of discrimination, harassment, or wage violations.

• How to use them: Check your state’s labor website to file complaints and get state-specific help.

5. Whistleblower Protection Programs

• What it is: If you're being retaliated against for reporting illegal activities or unsafe conditions, many government agencies (like OSHA and the SEC) have whistleblower programs to protect you.

• How to use it: You can report retaliation through whistleblower programs for protection and possible compensation.

• Website: www.whistleblowers.gov

6. Employment Attorneys

• What it is: Consulting with an employment lawyer can help you understand your rights and what actions you can take legally.

• How to use it: Many attorneys offer free initial consultations, and legal insurance like the one from MetLife can make this accessible.

• Website: Find employment lawyers through resources like the National Employment Lawyers Association (www.nela.org).

7. Your State or Local Human Rights Commission

• What it is: These organizations handle complaints about discrimination, harassment, and civil rights violations at the state or local level.

• How to use it: You can file a formal complaint with these commissions for investigation and support.

• Website: Search for your state or local commission online.

8. Non-Profit Organizations

• Examples:

  • Workplace Fairness – Offers resources on your rights and how to file complaints: www.workplacefairness.org

  • Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund – Provides legal resources and advice for workers facing sexual harassment or retaliation: www.timesupnow.org

  • ACLU – Offers legal support and advocacy for civil rights, including discrimination cases: www.aclu.org