Although the term workplace discrimination is a vague and broadly used terms, in the White Plains, New York, area and throughout the country, it covers many forms. If you feel you have been treated differently than fellow employees based on your gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, national origin, age, religious beliefs, political affiliations or other attributes about yourself, you likely have been a victim of employment discrimination.
If you feel this has happened to you, it is important to file a complaint for discrimination to the New York State Division of Human Rights. If you do not feel comfortable filing the complaint yourself, you may use a representative, including a lawyer, a family member, social worker, union steward or anyone you personally select as your representative.
Your complaint must be in the form of writing, and must include the following:
- Your name, address, and contact telephone number
- If applicable, the name, address and telephone number of your representative
- The name and address of the agency, business, or person you are filing against
- Specifics about the alleged discrimination including the when, how and why you believe the discrimination took place (was it due to your sex, race, age, etc.)
- Names of all the people involved, including witnesses
- Your signature and your representatives signature (if applicable)
- Any other relevant information that may help them understand the case
It is important to file a claim as soon as possible, as all claims must be submitted within 180 days of the time of the incident. If you are uncertain about any of the laws or procedures regarding employment discrimination, it may be helpful to seek guidance of a law professional to help you along the way.
Source: NY.gov, “How to File a Discrimination Claim,” accessed on March 10, 2015
