Unfair workplace discrimination occurs when an employer, manager or someone in apposition of power or authority makes a decision based on the person's gender, race, religion, sexual orientation or color. The individual may be denied a position or employment based not on his or her skills or potential but on the above aspects or attributes. Unfair workplace discrimination is illegal under federal, state and local legislation in most instances. In several states, it is still legal to subject gays, lesbians and transgender individuals to unfair workplace discrimination. An individual may be able to take the appropriate steps to combat the problem. Consult an attorney who is a specialist in the field of discrimination and harassment to discover whether a case of unfair workplace discrimination is possible.