On January 18, 2017, it was announced that the United States Department of Labor filed a suit against Oracle America Inc, a unit of Oracle Corp. claiming that the company unlawfully and systematically paid white male employees higher rates over their non-white co-workers and favored Asian applicants when seeking new employment.
According to the suit, in the company’s Redwood Shores, California headquarters, white males were paid more than non-white and female counterparts, despites the same job titles, experience and seniority. In addition, the suit claims that Oracle regularly preferred Asian applicants, particularly Indian workers, over white, black and Hispanic workers for technical jobs and product development positions. In addition, the Dept. of Justice claimed that initial inquiries into the investigation in 2014 were refused by the company.
Oracle denies the claim, stating that it was politically motivated. “Oracle values diversity and inclusion, and is a responsible equal opportunity and affirmative action employer,” said an Oracle spokesperson.
The United States, on local, state and federal levels, has various laws and protections in order to protect employees from all forms of discrimination, including discrimination on the grounds of age, sex or gender, race and religious beliefs, and takes offenses very seriously. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 specifically addresses equal employment opportunities in the United States to address these issues.
If you believe that you have been a victim of any form of employment discrimination, it is important to protect your rights. You may want to reach out to a firm familiar with employment law to discuss your options.
Source: Reuters, “U.S. sues Oracle, alleges salary and hiring discrimination,” By Daniel Wiessner, Jan. 18, 2017