Q: How is workplace sexual discrimination dealt with?
My fiance was hired at $8.75/hr three years ago after having 5 years of experience in the same field of work. Over these three years she has had only stellar work reviews, earning a promotion and is now paid $11.00/hr. Recently a man was hired for her same position (not replacing it) at $11.50/hr despite having absolutely no experience in the field and displaying subjectively bad work ethic. There are no merits on paper. The problem was made apparent because the male hired was gloating about his pay. The owner of their workplace was made aware of the problem but for 2 weeks she has remained silent and has now admitted this was no mistake. This is a huge disrespect to my partner and is a clearcut case of sexual discrimination. How does this get handled?
A: The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act was enacted to stop/punish just this action. Unfortunately, at $20 per week in damages, the difference in the pay, realistically a lawyer cannot afford to get involved in the dispute. She should, if she wants to take action, complain in writing to the employer and keep a copy for herself.
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