How can I stop these problems at work?

Question

I just began a new job and am in the training classes for it now. I am one race, the class (except for 2 others) are another. I am funny, generally outgoing, but can be also very withdrawn. Lately when I talk to my friend who is the same race as myself, the other people listen in and lie/manipulate/exaggerate (nothing ever said about race, politics, or other sticky subjects). I was called into the managers office today and she had a list of complaints that people had against me, and the things were stupid. The others pick on me so much, and I did nothing to them! A few things she brought up were lies. Like..

I said my two dogs barked all night and kept me awake. They lied and told the trainer that I said "they bark and are annoying just like the dogs in here" (LIE!)

One girl got in my face and tried to hit me for no reason and I said I'm going to get "Marilyn Manson". I meant become antisocial, quiet, and not have anything to do with anyone. They took it bad! And are repeating it over, and over, during training class.

I was asking about skin care and said I have bad acne breakouts sometimes. I said "my mom was mean once and said I looked like an AIDS patient or sickly because of my sores". The trainer heard this and reported me and I got fussed at for that.

Why am I under scrutiny so much? What am I doing wrong? People say how funny I am, and fun to be around. And then I hear this junk. Ugh!

Answer 1

Sounds like someone, or some people, have it out for you.

If possible, I suggest changing jobs.

If not, then get a small voice activated recorder and use it everyday at work, that way when someone lies about one of your statements you can play it back.

Answer 2

Your immaturity shows. Is this how you interact at your job? Keep in mind, you are being trained/paid to perform a job, not socialize or fraternize with your co-workers. Generally, you should stick with your assigned duties in training or at the actual job site.

If you are experiencing unwanted or unwlecomed harrassment, this is against the law. If you feel you are being discriminated upon due to your race, you have a duty to bring this to the attention of your trainier/manager. It is incumbent on them to take approriate action on the harrasser. Be sure that you don't further or banter the harrasser, or you have no case.

Answer 3

It sounds to me like a hostile work environment. I would keep my resume up to date.

What can you do? Probably nothing. It may or may not be based on race, but it is your burden to prove it is to take action.

Is this a dream job, one that you like? Enough to put up with the hassle? Only you can answer, and the answer might be different day to day.

Keep on working while you are looking for a better situation. The easiest way to find a job is if you are already employed.