Equality in Workplace Position and Pay

Equality – has it been realized and sought in every form possible?  In the workplace we seek to ensure that there is equality among race, gender, sexual orientation and disability but have we considered equality among working position and pay grade?  Legislation has been sought for seemingly all other forms of workplace equality, however, I have not seen the issue of equality for working position and pay grade addressed.  My issue is with secretaries, administrative assistants, and other similar positions being treated with a lower level of respect than that typically given to a company executive– whether the treatment is overt or covert.  Yes, there are unions in place that may help with this but in the cases where no union is present, I believe those working in lower ranking positions and subsequent pay grades are more likely to receive less respect and possible unfair treatment.  It should not be a choice as to whether or not to treat the janitor with respect compared to the typically guaranteed respect for a business executive.  Both of these individuals deserve respect not because of their position within a company, professional title, or pay grade but because they are human beings alone.  I believe that addressing this form of workplace inequality would help to improve job satisfaction, improve employee relations, decrease workplace stress, and decrease unhealthy workplace competition.  I also believe that once the issue is addressed we can begin the remedy process with education of all workplace employees - including CEOs, owners and upper level management (they are not too busy to ensure equality in every form among their employees). 

If this thought never goes beyond this blog, I hope that those reading this will be inspired to revere the people they interact with on their job and in life, regardless of their position title or pay grade.