If you’re experiencing exclusion, bias, or microagressions at work, how should you approach the situation? LeRon L. Barton — writer, author, and speaker who has written about navigating the workplace as BIPOC leader — shares his advice.

1. Know you’re not alone. When you are a person of color in a workplace that is predominately white, your work is likely to be carefully (and unfairly) scrutinized. Know that your experiences are valid and worth addressing.
2. Document everything. Whenever you have a negative experience, write it down. Note the time, date, what was said, and who said it. These instances can serve as evidence, backing up any accusations you might bring to management.
3. Find your allies. Acknowledge if others are experiencing similar treatment, and document this as well. Don’t assume, however, that others will be eager to collaborate with you on confronting management or HR.  While speaking up about harassment is absolutely necessary to drive change, the process can also take a big emotional toll. It’s possible that others experiencing the same treatment may not be in a place to take that on.
4. Confront management. If your issue is not being handled in a way that is appropriate, you may want to consider addressing your concerns with your boss’s manager or HR. During these meetings, talk about what you have been experiencing, bring the notes and documentation you have written, and explain what management has not done and what they should be doing.
5. Know when to leave. If you address these problems with your direct manager, their management, and HR, and nothing changes, then that organization is not the right place for you. You can take their lack of action as a clear sign that you are not respected or valued there. And rest assured, while things may feel bleak right now, there are workplaces that prioritize belonging, inclusion, and psychological safety.