America is often referred to as the great melting pot. People come to this country from all over the world in search of better lives for themselves and their families. Unfortunately, in searching for employment or even after work is obtained, some individuals who have made their homes in Michigan and elsewhere face workplace discrimination due to their nationality. This, of course, is not okay.
People are afraid of what they do not know or understand. It is simple psychology. However, when it comes to hiring and employing someone, the only things that should matter are the skills that person possesses and how that individual’s knowledge and experience will benefit one’s company.
According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and applicable laws, employers are prohibited from discriminating against someone because of their nationality. This means that they cannot refuse to hire, fail to promote, refuse benefits, fail to provide fair compensation or fire/layoff an employee due to his or her national origin. Other employees are also not permitted to harass a fellow co-worker because of the same reason.
Those in Michigan who believe that they are or have been the victims of national origin workplace discrimination may take steps to seek compensation for any losses they have experienced as a result. Such losses may include lost or reduced wages and benefits, and emotional damages — among various others. An experienced employment law attorney can review one’s case and, if appropriate, file and litigate the appropriate civil claim in court or seek a settlement through out-of-court negotiations.
Source: eeoc.gov, “National Origin Discrimination“, Accessed on June 7, 2017