You have rights in the workplace. The New York State Human Rights Law protects you from Discrimination.
The New York State Human Rights Law (“NYSHRL”), § 290 et. seq. of the New York Executive Law, mandates that employees be able to work without harassment or discrimination based upon sex, gender identity, pregnancy (including failure to accommodate), disability (including failure to accommodate), race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, military status, age, marital status, domestic violent victim status, predisposing genetic characteristics, prior arrest or conviction record, or familial status.
In addition, an employee cannot be terminated for opposing discrimination in the workplace. That constitutes retaliation.
If your employer takes any adverse action against you because you belong to one, or more, of the above categories, or fails to accommodate your disability, or retaliates against you for engaging in protected activity because you complained of discrimination, your employer has violated the New York State Human Rights Law.
The New York State Division of Human Rights is an administrative agency that handles complaints of discrimination. You can file a complaint of discrimination at the New York State Division of Human Rights (“NYSDHR”) within one year of the last act of discrimination, or three years if you are claiming sexual harassment. (You may also file a complaint in Supreme Court within 3 years of the date of discrimination). An investigator will review your complaint and the Respondent’s position statement. If your complaint receives a finding of “probable cause,” you will be entitled to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, who may award damages if you can prove that you were discriminated against.
This website will assist you in filing and preparing, a case of employment discrimination at the New York State Division of Human Rights.
This site is is not maintained by, or affiliated with, the New York State Division of Human Rights. This site is maintained by Attorney Raymond Nardo.
