Certain members of management are TERRIBLY discriminatory and downright insulting and they absolutely play favorites. You cannot have an opinion that differs because you'll be told you're wrong and don't know how to do your job. I repeatedly tried to make my supervisor aware of situations, but was told that I overreact, am too hard on my employees, etc, all while they were doing things they should not have been, but I wasn't allowed to ever express any dissatisfaction with other employees.
You will be told to do something, but if it doesn't turn out right, your boss will deny he ever told you to do that. Even if others have heard the same conversation and verify you are right, you will be told you're wrong, insulted, and made to feel worthless.
I have been told that I had the mentality of a sixth grader for not wanting to break policy. To the point where I have been forced onto a conference call with a customer completely in the wrong, and then not supported my management because they're so afraid of getting a complaint, regardless of how wrong the customer is. Makes you feel like an idiot. I've been told to give a customer whatever they want to go away.
I was continually asked if I wanted more kids while I was pregnant, then on my second day upon return from leave, was told by my direct supervisor that if I didn't request a demotion, he would have me fired because I was unable to manage with two kids, and a husband to take care of. I tried to fight back but was basically told there was no use, then forced to quit within the month.
He accused me of things I did not do, said he had evidence but I was never allowed to know what it was. Because in reality he made it all up.
I don't know why they have policies in place because you're forced to break them. You're protected if you're higher management regardless of the number of times you just illegally harass or discriminate.
Oh, and I can't even tell you the number of candidates that were turned down for their age. I had a VERY highly qualified candidate who was in his 50's and was told that I had to turn him down because he was too old and we just don't hire that type of person ("type" meaning over 25). I was only allowed to hire young, fresh out of college kids who had no work ethic, rather than someone with 10 years experience.
Twice I know of people who were told they had positions only to have the offer pulled because the DM just changed his mind after they'd turned in 2 week notices at their other jobs.