How one is perceived in the workplace is important. It is unfair when hard work, and dedication are not appreciated, but worse is a perception of one's abilities based on stereotype or bias.
Facing job loss, redundancy or harassment due to race discrimination is damaging emotionally, and financially. One has control over being at work on time, on putting in a full day, and giving a good job performance. There is no control over someone else's bigotry, bias, or contempt.
Discrimination can take many forms. For some it is a daily harassment, and bullying that is demoralizing. Others are dismissed or made redundant without cause. There is a sense among those who hold on to bigotry that a person of a certain race, or any individual of another race is not due consideration.
There is no way to change the viewpoint of someone who holds a bigoted outlook. No amount of diligence, or talent in one's job performance will ever be enough to change his or her mind.
The only way to alter this faulty perception of race inferiority is to use the support of the law. The truth is the law does not favour discrimination. No one should have to face financial loss or emotional conflict due to an employer's biased opinion. There are times when seeking this protection is the only measure that might change the mind of someone who is biased.