National Origin Discrimination Attorney in New York City, New York

Experiencing national origin discrimination can be intimidating and stressful. It can affect your job, your well-being, and your future.  

At J Goldman Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by individuals who experience discrimination based on their national origin. We will stand by your side, advocating for your rights and fighting for justice.  

Led by attorney John Goldman, our firm offers compassionate and effective legal representation to clients throughout New York City, including Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, East Village, Hell’s Kitchen, Upper West Side, and Harlem. 

Our extensive legal experience and a deep understanding of New York’s diverse communities make us the go-to choice for anyone facing national origin discrimination. 

What Is National Origin Discrimination?

National origin discrimination occurs when an individual is treated unfavorably because they are from a particular country or part of the world or because they look or sound foreign. This type of workplace discrimination can manifest in various forms, such as: 

• Hiring and firing: Employers might refuse to hire or terminate someone based on their national origin. 

• Workplace harassment: Inappropriate comments, jokes, or threats directed at someone because of their nationality. 

• Pay and promotions: Discriminatory practices in salary, bonuses, or promotions. 

• Job assignments: Assigning less desirable or more dangerous tasks to employees based on their national origin. 

• Language requirements: Employers may impose English-only policies that disproportionately affect employees of certain national origins, which can create a hostile work environment. 

• Denying benefits: Individuals may be unfairly denied access to benefits or opportunities, such as training programs or travel assignments, simply due to their nationality. 

• Stereotyping: Making assumptions about an employee's abilities or work ethic based on their national origin can lead to unfair treatment and create a discriminatory atmosphere within the workplace. 

New York Laws Governing National Origin Discrimination

In New York, national origin discrimination is prohibited by federal and state laws seeking to create a fair and inclusive workplace. The main statutes include: 

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: This federal law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. 

• New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL): This state law provides additional protections and applies to employers with four or more employees. 

• New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL): One of the most comprehensive anti-discrimination laws in the nation, offering broad protections to employees in New York City. 

• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): This federal agency enforces laws against workplace discrimination and provides a mechanism for individuals to file complaints regarding national origin discrimination, allowing victims to seek justice.  

• New York City Commission on Human Rights: This local agency investigates complaints of discrimination and has the authority to impose penalties on employers found to violate the NYCHRL, further protecting employees' rights within the city. 

• Anti-Retaliation protections: Both federal and state laws protect individuals who report discriminatory practices or participate in investigations or lawsuits from retaliation, so that victims can speak out without fear of losing their jobs or facing further discrimination. 

Your Rights and Protections

Many people are unaware of the full extent of their rights under national origin discrimination laws. Here are a few key points to remember: 

• Equal treatment: You have the right to be treated equally in all aspects of employment, from hiring to termination. 

• Hostile work environment: Employers must maintain a workplace free from harassment and hostility based on national origin. 

• Retaliation: It is illegal for employers to retaliate against you for filing a discrimination claim or participating in an investigation. 

• Reasonable accommodation: In some cases, employers may need to provide reasonable accommodations for employees' cultural or religious practices. 

• Access to resources: You have the right to access resources, such as legal assistance or internal reporting mechanisms, to help address any issues related to national origin discrimination. 

• Documentation: Keep records of any discriminatory behavior you experience or witness, including dates, times, and details of incidents, as this documentation can be critical in supporting your case. 

• Education and training: Employers must provide training regarding discrimination laws and policies, so that all employees know their rights and responsibilities in maintaining a respectful workplace.