As a young woman nearing the age at which Americans typically begin entering the workforce, the issue of workplace discrimination is of particular relevance to me. I grew up in a family of business owners, day laborers, and government employees, and I believe that every variety of American employee could benefit from a keener awareness of the injustice being carried out in workplaces all over the country.

In combination with legal changes, cultural changes are necessary in decreasing workplace discrimination in the U.S. Increased awareness about issues of discrimination against cultural minorities could boost understanding, and therefore acceptance, of those that are consistently discriminated against. Stopping workplace discrimination begins with informed employees; should more Americans become cognizant of unequal treatment, as either a victim or an observer, a more massive initiative could be formed against inequality.

While putting an end to workplace discrimination would certainly play a huge role in improving the day-to-day conditions for those who live and work in America, workplace equality is far from a simply philanthropic vision. The U.S. economy could see major increases in productivity should workers be more comfortable on the job. Companies that heavily emphasize employee comfort and benefits, like Google and Marriot, have seen their stocks soar from year to year. Similarly, 78% of transgender individuals report better performance on the job following their transition. Should the U.S. effectively begin limiting the instances of discrimination in the work place, the nation could see major improvements in not only the lives of individual citizens, but also in the status of the country as a whole.