Racial Discrimination Attorney in New York City

Don't Let the Injustice of Racial Discrimination Stand - Call (212) 295-5828!

Under both state and federal laws, racial discrimination in the workplace is illegal. Racial discrimination can appear in obvious forms and more subtle ways. If you face racial discrimination at work, you have rights. Our racial discrimination lawyers in New York City stand ready to protect those rights.

Don’t wait to address your legal needs—connect with a skilled racial discrimination lawyer in New York. Call (212) 295-5828 or get in touch with us to book your consultation.

Forms of Racial Discrimination in the Workplace

Racial discrimination occurs in the workplace when an employer bases employment decisions on race, not on an employee’s skills, experience, or performance. Some employers may even unintentionally allow preexisting policies to harm certain groups more than others.

Forms of racial discrimination in the workplace may include:

• Ethnic and racial slurs
• Not granting an employee a promotion or raise due to race
• Racially insensitive jokes
• Refusing to hire someone based solely on ethnicity or race
• Making offensive comments or gestures based on race
• Offering a lower rate of pay or lesser terms of employment and benefits because of the employee’s race
• Denying training and promotional opportunities
• Employment policies that disproportionately impact certain groups of employees over others based on race

Racial discrimination can show up in subtle ways that go unnoticed. Unconscious biases often shape who gets promoted or which team members hold leadership roles. Discrimination may also happen when employers punish staff for expressing their cultural identity, including hairstyles or traditional attire that relate to their community. Addressing these issues builds stronger, more inclusive workplaces.

New York City law expressly prohibits discrimination based on cultural traits closely related to race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles, through the CROWN Act. This regulation gives individuals more freedom to show their heritage at work. Employers in New York City must stay aware of these requirements to ensure they provide a fair workplace for all employees in our city’s diverse environment.

If you've faced racial discrimination at your job, the team of New York City race discrimination attorneys at Brown Kwon & Lam can help you stand up for your rights.

How to File a Racial Discrimination Complaint in New York

If you have experienced racial discrimination in the workplace, you can take action by filing a complaint. In New York, you may file your complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights (DHR) or the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Here are the steps to file a complaint:

1. Document the discrimination: Keep a detailed record of all incidents, including dates, times, locations, and witnesses.
2. File a complaint with the DHR or EEOC: Submit your complaint to either agency online, by mail, or in person. Both agencies review your case and can hold mediation or hearings if needed.
3. Cooperate with the investigation: Share any other information or evidence requested, such as witness statements or documents.
4. Receive a determination: The agency will decide whether discrimination occurred. If they find discrimination, remedies may include back pay, reinstatement, or policy changes.
5. Consider legal action: If the agency does not find discrimination or you disagree with the outcome, you may consider filing a lawsuit with a racial discrimination attorney.

The complaint process can feel overwhelming, but careful documentation strengthens your case. Consulting a lawyer early ensures you meet all requirements and follow each step. Legal action not only upholds your rights but also pushes back against discrimination by holding employers accountable.

New York employees have deadlines for filing discrimination complaints. You must file with the EEOC within 300 days of the last incident or with the New York State Division of Human Rights within one year. Missing a deadline can limit your options. In New York City, you may also file directly with the New York City Commission on Human Rights to use city-specific protections that go beyond federal standards.

At Brown Kwon & Lam, our experienced New York City race discrimination attorneys guide you through every step in filing a complaint and pursuing justice for the discrimination you have experienced.

Contact our office today by calling (212) 295-5828 to arrange a free consultation with our NYC race discrimination attorneys.

Timelines and What to Expect in a New York Racial Discrimination Case

Timelines for racial discrimination cases depend on which agency handles your complaint and the complexity of your situation. Once you file, agencies like the New York State Division of Human Rights or the New York City Commission on Human Rights start the investigation process. This typically involves a detailed review of your records and interviews with witnesses. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others, especially those that go to mediation or a hearing, may take a year or more.

During the process, your legal team keeps you updated about deadlines, responses from your employer, and official notices from the agency. New York's strong anti-discrimination laws give these agencies authority to require employers to change policies or provide relief as needed. Working with lawyers who communicate clearly, such as the team at Brown Kwon & Lam, helps you stay informed and supported throughout your case. Clear communication reduces confusion and helps clients move forward with confidence. Connect with a professional racial discrimination attorney in New York as soon as possible.

Why You Should Take Action Against Racial Discrimination in NYC

Racial discrimination can have serious personal and professional effects, leading to lost opportunities, lower morale, and even physical and emotional harm. Taking action after facing racial discrimination at work protects your rights and reduces future harm for yourself and others.

Pursuing a claim also drives positive change across New York workplaces. Employers often revisit their training programs, policies, and day-to-day practices following legal action, making the environment safer for everyone. In a city as diverse as New York, these steps encourage companies to adopt training in cultural awareness and address unconscious bias directly. Standing up shows others in your organization that respect and fairness matter, helping make city workplaces more inclusive for all employees.

Racial discrimination not only violates your rights but also weakens fairness and equality across the workplace. In New York City, a diverse workforce should build acceptance and opportunity—not create division. Addressing discrimination directly helps maintain a healthy work environment and ensures injustices do not continue or spread.

At Brown Kwon & Lam, our New York City racial discrimination attorneys guide you through every challenge, providing the knowledge and resources you need to move forward. Our focus is on support, clear guidance, and protecting your rights with respect and care.

Don't let racial discrimination go unaddressed. Take action today and let us help you fight for justice and fairness in your workplace.

Impact of Racial Discrimination on New York's Economy

Racial discrimination also has a major impact on New York’s economy. When employees face unfair workplace treatment, productivity drops, morale drops, and turnover rates climb. Businesses with higher turnover struggle to keep their reputation and run efficiently.

As a national business center, New York feels the effects of workplace discrimination across many industries and communities. Employers that create fair, inclusive workplaces benefit from better ideas, stronger teams, and improved public image. When companies ignore fair practices, they risk losing talent to competitors. In response, city agencies and community organizations have invested in outreach and training to help employers reduce disparities and create equal opportunities.

Widespread discrimination causes talent loss and stifles growth in organizations throughout New York. City and state economies feel these effects as consumer spending drops and state resources stretch to cover the fallout. Addressing discrimination builds more resilient and competitive businesses, strengthening New York by ensuring every worker can succeed.

Contact us to schedule your free initial consultation consultation with an experienced racial discrimination attorney in New York by calling (212) 295-5828.

Laws Protecting Against Racial Discrimination in the Workplace

Title VII prohibits workplace discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. Under Title VII, employers may not:

• Fail or refuse to hire, or discharge, any individual because of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin
• Limit, segregate, or classify employees or applicants in a way that denies them opportunities or affects their employment status because of those protected characteristics

Employers who disregard these rules may face penalties ranging from $50,000 for smaller companies up to $300,000 for those employing 500 or more workers.

The New York City Human Rights Law also bans discrimination against employees based on protected class status. In many cases, New York laws offer stronger protection than federal regulations. However, there are times when filing under federal law works better for certain cases.

Federal and state laws work together to provide a safety net for New York employees facing discrimination. The NYCHRL generally gives even broader protections than federal law, so understanding all options can help those seeking recourse. A knowledgeable attorney can help compare these regulations for your situation.

New York City workers have one of the strongest sets of legal protections anywhere in the country. Local agencies like the New York City Commission on Human Rights actively investigate and prosecute violations, requiring employers to correct unfair workplace practices. City law also protects employees from discrimination based on physical traits closely linked to race. Knowing your rights under changing state and city rules empowers you to recognize and report workplace violations quickly.

How New York's Diverse Workforce Influences Discrimination Laws

New York State’s mix of cultures, languages, and backgrounds brings energy and innovation to the local workforce. At the same time, this diversity means strong anti-discrimination laws and education programs are crucial to maintain fair workplaces. Any employer behavior that limits opportunities for one racial or cultural group can have far-reaching effects on entire neighborhoods and industries.

Employers in New York face stricter requirements for recruiting, training, and workplace policies. Laws require language access and encourage anti-bias education to promote fairness and help remove barriers. Communities like Queens and Brooklyn—where the population is especially diverse—often see local organizations and businesses joining efforts to help managers and employees understand cultural customs that affect the job. These partnerships help create a climate where every worker feels acknowledged and respected.

The state continues to update laws and guidelines to reflect shifting demographics and needs in the workplace. Local human rights groups play a key role in educating employers and workers about anti-discrimination rights and responsibilities. Through community outreach and regular training, New York fosters a culture of acceptance and promotes economic growth by including people of all backgrounds.

For experienced guidance, turn to a skilled racial discrimination lawyer in New York at Brown Kwon & Lam. Contact us or call (212) 295-5828 to secure a free consultation.

Same-Race Discrimination in New York City

Court cases in New York City have recognized that same-race discrimination also occurs in the workplace. For years, the courts rarely addressed colorism—discrimination based on skin tone among members of the same race—until the late 1980s.

Employers now recognize that same-race discrimination can lead to unfair treatment, often based on different skin tones or other superficial factors within the same racial group. For instance, a supervisor with a lighter complexion may show bias in promotion decisions over a coworker with a darker complexion, even if both are from the same racial background.

These cases challenge old assumptions and show that discrimination can happen even among those who share a similar heritage. Employers and employees alike must remain vigilant about internal bias and remain ready to take concerns seriously, regardless of who takes part.

Legal and workplace solutions for same-race discrimination often focus on raising awareness, providing resources, and promoting respect within all cultural communities. By bringing attention to these challenges, New York supports ongoing efforts to reduce discrimination and promote fairness for everyone.

Discriminatory Policy: Disparate Impact Discrimination

Workplace rules or policies that look neutral may sometimes hurt a certain group the most. Disparate impact discrimination exists when a rule or practice (even if nobody intended it to discriminate) causes a disadvantage for a protected group.

New York City’s Human Rights Law requires employers to think beyond intent by considering how policies may unfairly affect employees. City agencies regularly investigate complaints that highlight patterns of disparate impact. For example, businesses may face review for entry tests, job requirements, or layoff policies if these measures affect some groups more than others. This oversight ensures all employees have a fair shot at hiring and promotion.

To prove disparate impact, an employee must show that the policy resulted in adverse consequences for a specific racial group. Companies often rely on both objective benchmarks, like skills tests, and subjective criteria, such as review panels, in hiring and promotions. When these systems lead to an imbalance, legal claims may arise.

Ongoing review of workplace rules helps employers discover and address bias. By identifying, correcting, and preventing unfair practices, organizations in New York City promote stronger, more inclusive workplaces where every employee can succeed.

Fight Racial Discrimination in New York City with Brown Kwon & Lam

If you are filing a racial discrimination case against an employer in New York City, you need a reliable employment law firm with a record of results. The attorneys at Brown Kwon & Lam can help protect your rights in the workplace and stand by you when your rights are at risk.

Having counsel gives you clarity and guidance while facing challenging decisions. Our attorneys work directly with clients from the first conversation, listening to the issues that matter and focusing on solutions tailored to the circumstances. We use local knowledge and connections to guide cases through city and state agencies, making sure our clients understand each phase along the way. Every client’s experience is unique, and our team works to find solutions that fit your goals and match the evolving regulations in New York.

Navigating employment discrimination claims in New York requires determination and a firm grasp of current laws. Our attorneys devote themselves to personal service so clients feel supported and informed. With Brown Kwon & Lam, you move forward with confidence, knowing that your case is in reliable hands focused on what matters most: your rights and your voice.

If you have been a victim of racial discrimination, including same-race discrimination, contact Brown Kwon & Lam to speak with a racial discrimination lawyer in Brooklyn. 
For more information on race discrimination in New York, take a look at our FAQ.

Frequently Asked Questions about Racial Discrimination

What Is Considered Racial Discrimination at Work?

Racial discrimination at work means any unfair treatment or work-related decision based on someone’s race or traits connected to race, like skin color or cultural practices. This can appear in many forms—from racial slurs and jokes to being overlooked for promotions due to bias. Discrimination can affect hiring, workplace interactions, company policies, pay, training, and benefits.

Recognizing racial discrimination in the workplace is a key first step to stopping it. Employees in New York can rely on rights under federal law, such as Title VII, and under strong local protections in the New York City Human Rights Law. If you have questions about your unique situation, talk with a racial discrimination attorney in New York at Brown Kwon & Lam.

How Can I Prove That I Was Discriminated Against?

To prove racial discrimination, gather evidence that shows bias or a negative work impact based on race. Written records, emails, and messages can document what happened. Colleague statements can also make your case stronger.

Identifying a pattern in how employers assign work, give promotions, or discipline staff can help highlight bias. You can also use statistics showing how your employer treats different groups. A racial discrimination lawyer in New York can help gather, organize, and present these facts as part of your claim.

Can an Employer Retaliate Against Me for Filing a Complaint?

Employers cannot legally retaliate against you for filing a racial discrimination complaint. Retaliation can include getting demoted, losing your job, or even being moved to a different assignment for reporting discrimination or participating in an investigation. Subtle actions such as unfair performance reviews or changing job duties can also count as retaliation.

If you suspect retaliation, write down everything as it happens. Employers must show they have valid reasons for job changes after a claim. Getting legal advice can help you document events and protect your rights at work.

What Compensation Am I Entitled to If I Win My Discrimination Lawsuit?

If you win your discrimination case, you may be entitled to recover lost pay, regain your job, or get a promotion previously denied to you. The law may also award money for pain and suffering or for emotional stress. In rare cases, courts can require the employer to pay money designed to punish extremely unfair conduct. Results depend on each case, so talking with a racial discrimination attorney in New York ensures you understand your options and likely outcomes.

What Should I Do If I Witness Racial Discrimination at Work?

If you see workplace racial discrimination, write down what you saw—include dates, details, and who was involved. Offer support to the person targeted and consider reporting the incident to HR. You can also report violations as a witness to authorities. Companies must follow anti-discrimination rules, and taking action helps everyone feel safer and more respected at work.

Why Clients Choose Brown Kwon & Lam for Racial Discrimination Matters

Clients choose Brown Kwon & Lam because the firm emphasizes direct attorney communication and meaningful service—every client has the chance to explain their story directly to someone who will listen. The firm's commitment to thoughtful, personal attention stands out in New York’s busy legal market.

Brown Kwon & Lam’s experience covers all areas of New York City and state employment law. This broad reach allows them to adapt legal strategies for each client’s needs, whether dealing with city agencies, different boroughs, or local courts. By treating every case as important, they demonstrate that each client’s voice truly matters. Their reliable guidance and respectful approach set the foundation for strong partnerships throughout the claims process.

A qualified racial discrimination attorney in Brooklyn Brown Kwon & Lam is ready to help you. Get in touch via online form or call (212) 295-5828 to make an appointment right away. Your initial consultation is free of charge.