Black and ethnic minority workers are confronting 'appalling' levels of racism, bullying, and unfair treatment in their workplaces, new research has found. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) reported a 'shocking increase' in explicit racism at work over the past six years, with the union warning that such behaviour was rife. Incidents highlighted in the study included having their English language ability questioned, enduring racist jokes and banter, and even experiencing violence, threats, and intimidation.
Key findings of the TUC study
The survey, conducted among more than 1,000 black, Asian, and minority ethnic working people aged 16 and over in Great Britain, uncovered a disturbing trend. In 2022, it was revealed that more than 120,000 workers from minority ethnic backgrounds had left their jobs because of racism. Staff reported that discrimination ranges from racist bullying and harassment to more 'hidden' racism, such as jokes, stereotypes, or being treated differently at work.
Union demands for action
TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: 'No one should be treated unfairly or discriminated against because of their background, where they’re from or the colour of their skin, but black and ethnic minority workers are facing appalling and growing levels of racism and unfair treatment in Britain. This racism is plaguing the labour market – and it’s getting worse. The most explicit forms of racism have seen a shocking increase over recent years. It’s time for action to stamp this out.'
Nowak highlighted that the new duty on employers to protect workers from harassment from patients and customers – introduced through the Employment Rights Act – will be an important step forward for black and ethnic minority workers. The TUC has called on government ministers to change the law so employers are more responsible for protecting employees and preventing workplace racism.
Broader context
The issue is not confined to the UK. In the United States, a Black employee at a Tesla plant in Nevada is suing the electric carmaker over what he describes as 'ongoing severe, pervasive, race-based discrimination and harassment.' This case underscores the global nature of workplace racism and the need for robust legal protections.
