What should you do if an employee submits a written complaint alleging discrimination based on race?

What should you do if an employee submits a written complaint alleging discrimination based on race?

• A. Immediately suspend the employee and investigate.
• B. File with the civil rights commission and wait.
• C. Promptly make a verbal report of the allegation and the information gathered, through the chain of command, to the Chief Deputy, or his designee.
• D. Do nothing until a formal complaint is received.

Answer: (C)

Handling discrimination allegations requires quick, proper escalation through the chain of command so the agency can respond correctly and consistently. Promptly reporting the allegation and what you’ve gathered to the Chief Deputy or their designee ensures the situation is officially recognized, routed to the right investigators, and managed under the agency’s approved procedures. This approach initiates a formal process, safeguards the employee from retaliation, and maintains accountability and due process for all parties. Suspending the employee immediately or delaying action by waiting for an external civil rights filing bypasses internal policies and can prejudice the investigation. Doing nothing until a formal complaint is received similarly delays necessary action and responsibility.

Handling discrimination allegations requires quick, proper escalation through the chain of command so the agency can respond correctly and consistently. Promptly reporting the allegation and what you’ve gathered to the Chief Deputy or their designee ensures the situation is officially recognized, routed to the right investigators, and managed under the agency’s approved procedures. This approach initiates a formal process, safeguards the employee from retaliation, and maintains accountability and due process for all parties.

Suspending the employee immediately or delaying action by waiting for an external civil rights filing bypasses internal policies and can prejudice the investigation. Doing nothing until a formal complaint is received similarly delays necessary action and responsibility.