The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) prohibits treating employees and job applicants unfavorably or favorably because they are from a particular country or part of the world. National origin is also a protected class under Washington Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60).
Here are seven groups that commonly experience national discrimination in employment:
1. Individuals born outside the U.S
Some employers treat individuals born outside the U.S and those with ancestors from specific regions unfavorably.
2. Individuals with work authorization
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for non-citizens and immigrants with work authorizations to be discriminated against by employers. For instance, those with an employer-specific visa or a permanent resident card.
3. American workers
Employers are prohibited from preferring foreign workers or visa holders to American workers. This unfair practice often occurs because of perceived lower labor costs and the belief that foreign workers are more productive.
4. Individuals from a particular ethnic group
Cases of individuals being treated unfavorably in the workplace because they belong to a specific ethnic group are frequently reported.
5. Individuals with an accent
An employer acts unlawfully when they take an adverse action against an applicant or employee solely based on their accent when the accent does not materially interfere with job duties.
6. Individuals associated with someone of a certain national origin
A worker cannot be discriminated against because they are married to or associated with a person of a particular national origin or ethnic group.
7. Individuals perceived to be of a certain ethnic background
The law prohibits discrimination against individuals because they appear to be of a certain ethnic background, even if they are not.
National origin discrimination can occur in all stages of employment. It can also occur when the victim and the person engaging in the discrimination are of the same national origin. If you have experienced it, get more information to protect your career.