National Origin Discrimination Lawyers
At Sanders Law Group, we know that your national origin—your culture, accent, heritage—is integral to who you are and enriches the workplace. If you’ve faced unfair treatment because of where you come from, you may have experienced national origin discrimination. We’re here to stand with you and uphold your rights.
What Is National Origin Discrimination?
National origin discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfairly due to their nationality, ethnicity, accent, or cultural background. This mistreatment can manifest in comments, actions, or policies that disadvantage individuals based on their place of origin—and it’s illegal under several laws.
Your Legal Protections
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (Federal Law): Prohibits discrimination based on national origin in hiring, firing, promotions, and workplace conditions.
- New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL): Offers broader protections that apply to smaller employers and covers more subtle forms of bias.
- New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL): One of the most employee-friendly laws in the country—national origin bias alone can support a claim, without needing proof that your work was significantly affected.
Examples of National Origin Discrimination
- Your accent is mocked, ridiculed, or deemed “unprofessional.”
- Colleagues or supervisors question your loyalty or competence based on your heritage.
- You’re excluded from projects, assignments, or opportunities tied to unjustified cultural assumptions.
- You’re denied promotions because the company favors those who “fit the dominant culture.”
- Forced to amend your name or downplay your cultural identity to fit in or avoid bias.
How to Build a Strong Claim
Proving national origin discrimination requires thoughtful review of your workplace experience. We help you gather evidence like:
- Direct remarks: Statements about your origin suggesting bias or intent.
- Comparative treatment: Similar colleagues of different origin receiving more favorable treatment.
- Patterns or policies: Hiring or promotion practices that disproportionately disadvantage certain groups.
- Documentation: Emails, memos, or internal communications suggesting cultural bias.
- Witness accounts: Co-workers who observed discriminatory actions or comments.
Why New York Laws Matter
State and city protections in New York make a tremendous difference. While federal law often requires showing that national origin was the decisive factor, the NYCHRL allows claims based on even one biased comment that diminishes dignity or alters job conditions. That means your case can succeed even if the bias wasn’t constant—just enough to make your workplace unfair.
Your Next Steps: What You Can Do Now
- Document incidents including date, time, person involved, and specific language used.
- Keep any communications that may reflect bias—emails, performance notes, or memos.
- Identify coworkers who may support your experience through testimony.
- Reach out to Sanders Law Group early—delays could limit your ability to file a claim.
How Sanders Law Group Advocates for You
- Evaluate your experiences and determine the strongest grounds for legal action.
- File complaints with the EEOC, NYSDHR, or NYC Commission on Human Rights.
- Negotiate settlements or file suit—seeking remedies like back pay, emotional distress, reinstatement.
- Provide steadfast, client-focused legal guidance at every step.
Time-Sensitive Claims—Act Without Delay
Claims for national origin discrimination are subject to filing deadlines. Federal complaints typically need to be filed within 180–300 days; state and city statutes vary. Contact us promptly to preserve your rights.
Get Your Free Consultation
If you’ve been marginalized due to your background, don’t wait for justice—demand it.
Call (800) 979-3707, email info@sanderslaw.group, or fill out our free consultation form.
Why Clients Choose Sanders Law Group
- Proven skill in national origin and discrimination law
- Compassionate, culturally sensitive legal advocacy
- Commitment to achieving justice and equality in every case