ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Age discrimination in the United States

Age discrimination means treating someone unfairly or differently based on their age. This means that someone might not get a job, be paid the same as others, or have the same opportunities just because they are older than someone else. In the United States, there are laws that protect people from being discriminated against because of their age. These laws are called the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA).

The ADEA is a law that was passed in 1967 to protect people who are 40 years old or older from being treated unfairly in the workplace because of their age. This means that employers cannot discriminate against older workers when it comes to hiring, firing, promotions, or training. The ADEA also makes it illegal for employers to use age as a factor when making employment decisions.

For example, if an employer decides not to hire someone because they think they are too old for the job, that is discrimination. This is also true if an employer offers a younger employee a higher salary or more opportunities than an older employee with the same qualifications and experience.

The ADEA also protects workers from age-based harassment. This means that a coworker or manager cannot make derogatory comments or jokes about someone's age, or make life at work difficult for someone because of their age.

If someone believes they have been a victim of age discrimination, they can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is a government agency that investigates claims of discrimination in the workplace.

In summary, age discrimination is treating someone unfairly or differently because of their age. The ADEA is a law in the United States that protects workers who are 40 years and older from being discriminated against in the workplace.