A recent AARP survey has found that more than nine out of 10 older workers who were 45 years or older have faced age discrimination at some point while seeking employment. Within that statistic, AARP also found that 59 percent of Caucasians, 60 percent of Latinos, and over three quarters of African-American respondents had experienced age discrimination in the working world. The survey also found that women were more likely to face age discrimination.
Older workers are commonly judged on their age, rather than on their qualifications and talents. Many survey respondents said that they were asked for age-related information when applying for a new position, including birth and graduation dates. According to government research, almost one-third of workers aged 55 years and older who become unemployed remain so for six months or longer. By comparison, only 18 percent of workers who are between the ages of 16 and 54 are out of work for that long a period.
Although age discrimination seems to be rampant, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act was designed to protect older workers. Yet, even though most older Americans have experienced age discrimination, not even three percent have filed a claim with an employer or a government agency.
If you feel that you have faced age discrimination at work or in your search for employment, please call the Philadelphia age discrimination lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. We can guide you toward making the best decisions and protect your workplace rights. Please call us today at 215-569-1999 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients from the surrounding areas, including Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County.
