Attorney Janelle Romero for Rise Market in Junya Watanabe, Monse, Okhtein

Once you work in the corporate world long enough, disparate treatment between people of color and their white counterparts becomes hard to ignore. Minorities may come to accept that racism simply comes with the territory and in turn, become passive towards it. Though most can intuitively sense that something isn’t right, many do not realize, or even like to admit, that the abuse they are experiencing has a name— “workplace discrimination.” To recognize it is to give an uncomfortable truth life, yet without this recognition, we cannot develop strategic and protective measures. Accepting this treatment as the norm may provide temporary relief, but it is far more detrimental to the longevity and health of our communities.

For those who didn’t have parents or family members who navigated corporate environments or have legal knowledge, leveling the playing field may seem like an obstacle too great to overcome. The misconception that legal justice is reserved for the rich can further discourage us from seeking justice. Fortunately, we are lucky to have resources like TikTok, platforms that have become invaluable resources offering guidance from esteemed attorneys like Janelle Romero, who has generously joined us for a Q&A to provide her legal counsel and unique insight.

Experienced legal professionals like Janelle have witnessed firsthand how workplace discrimination has led to health inequality in minority communities, manifesting both mentally and physically in the following ailments: a strain in personal relationships, divorce, infant mortality, cardiovascular disease, coronary artery calcification, mental health disorders (depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, eating disorders, and psychosis), hypertension, alcoholism, high-risk behaviors, insomnia, inflammation, and cortisol dysregulation. In many cases, it can also lead to homelessness and suicide.

For these reasons, Rise is dedicated to collaborating with seasoned attorneys to distribute valuable information to our followers. Check out our enlightening Q&A with Attorney Janelle Romero below, and have your pen and notepad ready!

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Janelle is now able to provide legal counsel to individuals outside of New York.

Follow Janelle on TikTok>

Photography — Jared Alexander @xander.foto

Styling — @yilla.rise

Styling Assistant — Luke Richard @lukeruche