A press release from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) says the commission sued HCL America, Inc. in August 2024. The lawsuit occurred when the company denied a qualified 61-year-old Indian applicant for a sales director post because of his age and national origin. Internal communications showed the hiring manager looking for non-Indian applicants and calling the candidate “too old.”
The birthplace, ethnicity, accent, or culture of a person can lead to national origin discrimination. This type of discrimination in public services, education, housing, and the workplace violates federal and state laws. An experienced attorney can protect your rights and ensure fair treatment and legal recourse.
Discrimination lawyers can help you sue offenders or file complaints with the EEOC. They can also represent you in court, help you gather evidence, and negotiate settlements. Know your rights and get legal help to stop discrimination and hold offenders accountable.
This article will look at how a national origin discrimination lawyer can provide the necessary support you need to win an employment discrimination case and help assert your legal rights as a worker.
Understanding National Origin Discrimination Laws
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination in education and employment, including unfair treatment based on where you or your ancestors came from.
The EEOC can enforce these anti-discrimination laws. If you believe you are a victim of a discriminatory action, you can file a complaint with the EEOC.
National origin discrimination is not only discrimination based on ethnicity but also discrimination based on culture, language, or accent.
Knowing these laws provides you with such information for the protection of your rights.
According to The Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A., a lawyer’s help allows you to handle complex legal negotiations and improve your chances in any discrimination cases.
Recognizing Signs of Discrimination in the Workplace
If you notice your employer or colleagues treating someone differently based on their nationality, it should be a cause for concern.
Early signs of workplace discrimination may include being isolated from meetings and promotions. Receiving harsher criticism than your co-workers in the company is another sign of workplace discrimination. Jokes or remarks about an applicant’s nationality can create a hostile environment.
Check if other people with similar backgrounds receive the same treatment. Be more observant if unfair policies or practices have greatly impacted you or your group.
Trust your instincts and take immediate action if something feels wrong in your workplace. Documenting these signs can help you understand discriminatory incidents and motivate you to seek legal advice.
Gathering Evidence to Support Your Case
Building a workplace discrimination case requires evidence. Record discriminatory incidents immediately, including time, date, and place.
Include discriminatory emails, texts, or voicemails as evidence. Request written statements or testimony from anyone who might have witnessed the incident.
Attach your performance reviews and any relevant communication to demonstrate that employees are treated differently.
Read the company’s harassment and discrimination policy.
Collecting this evidence will clearly show that workplace discrimination exists in your company.
Navigating the Legal Process With Your Lawyer
Once proof supporting your case has been gathered, the next step is to discuss its legal complexities with your attorney. A skilled attorney will guide you through every stage, clarifying legal jargon and explaining it in relatable terms.
Work closely with your lawyer to plan the best course of action. The lawyer will assist you in filing all necessary documents and help you meet all the important deadlines. You can ask your lawyer to help you prepare for court hearings and give you tips during mediation sessions. If you have any questions or concerns, your lawyer is ready to address them and offer objective advice.
Seeking Compensation and Justice for Discrimination Claims
In a discrimination claim, clearly outline your expectations for compensation and the solutions needed to address the injustice you experienced. Your compensation should take into account all kinds of damages, including emotional distress, lost wages, and reputation damage.
A lawyer will help you gather case-supporting emails, witness statements, and records. Maintaining a positive professional lawyer-client relationship allows you to choose the best legal strategy for maximizing compensation, whether through settlement or trial.
Proving discrimination requires showing how your nationality affected your treatment. Awareness of this fact can help you secure a favorable outcome for your case.