No one should face discrimination or harassment because of their race, ethnicity, or skin color. Unfortunately, race discrimination in the workplace remains a serious issue. If you’ve been treated unfairly, you have legal rights—and an experienced New York employment lawyer can help you fight back.
In this blog, we’ll explain:
✔ What constitutes race discrimination and harassment under the law
✔ Common examples of racial bias at work
✔ How to prove your case
✔ What legal protections you have
✔ Steps to take if you’ve been targeted
What Is Race Discrimination in the Workplace?
Race discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly due to their race, skin color, or national origin. This includes:
- Hiring & Promotions – Being denied a job or advancement because of race.
- Pay Disparities – Receiving lower wages than colleagues in similar roles.
- Unfair Discipline – Being punished more harshly than others.
- Hostile Work Environment – Enduring racial slurs, jokes, or intimidation.
Both federal and New York State laws protect workers from racial discrimination, including:
🔹 Title VII of the Civil Rights Act
🔹 New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL)
🔹 New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) – Even broader protections
Real-World Examples of Racial Discrimination at Work
Racial bias isn’t always obvious. Here are some common but illegal scenarios:
1. Discriminatory Hiring Practices
- A qualified Black applicant is rejected because the employer says they “won’t fit the company culture.”
- A Latino worker is asked about their immigration status during an interview (which is illegal).
2. Unequal Pay & Promotions
- A white employee with less experience gets promoted over a more qualified Asian colleague.
- A Hispanic worker discovers they’re paid significantly less than white coworkers in the same role.
3. Racial Harassment & Hostile Work Environment
- A supervisor makes “jokes” about an employee’s accent or cultural background.
- Coworkers use racial slurs, display offensive symbols, or engage in bullying.
4. Retaliation for Complaining
- An employee reports race discrimination and is suddenly demoted or fired.
How to Prove Race Discrimination in New York
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, evidence is key. Documentation can include:
📌 Emails, texts, or recorded comments showing racial bias
📌 Witness statements from coworkers who observed unfair treatment
📌 Performance reviews (if they contradict disciplinary actions)
📌 Company policies that were unfairly enforced
New York courts take workplace discrimination seriously, but you need a strong legal strategy.
What Should You Do If You’re a Victim?
1. Document Everything
Keep records of discriminatory incidents, including dates, times, and witnesses.
2. Report It Internally
Follow your company’s HR process (but be aware that some employers may try to cover it up).
3. File a Complaint
You can file with:
- EEOC (Federal)
- NY Division of Human Rights
- NYC Commission on Human Rights
4. Consult an Employment Lawyer
A skilled race discrimination attorney can help you:
✅ Build a strong case
✅ Negotiate a settlement
✅ File a lawsuit if necessary
Why You Need a New York Race Discrimination Lawyer
Employment discrimination cases are complex. Employers often have powerful legal teams working to dismiss claims. An attorney can:
✔ Investigate and gather crucial evidence
✔ Navigate strict filing deadlines (as short as 180 days for EEOC claims)
✔ Fight for maximum compensation (back pay, emotional distress damages, punitive fines)
Were You Treated Unfairly Because of Your Race? We Can Help.
At Lipsky Lowe LLP, we stand up for victims of racial discrimination and harassment in New York. If you’ve been wronged, you don’t have to fight alone.
Fought for Your Faith at Work? We’ll Fight for You.
At Lipsky Lowe LLP, we’ve helped countless New Yorkers stand up against religious discrimination. Don’t let an employer violate your rights.
📞 Call today at (212) 815-8500 for a free consultation
📧 Email us at info@lipskylowe.com
📍 Serving NYC, Albany, Buffalo and all of New York from our office at 420 Lexington Ave, Suite 1830, New York, NY 10170
