NATIONAL ORIGIN DISCRIMINATION

NATIONAL ORIGIN DISCRIMINATION

The California Fair Employment and Housing Act prohibits an employer from discriminating against any employee because of that employee’s National Origin. Because there is rarely “smoking gun” evidence of racial discrimination, circumstantial evidence will usually suffice. An inference of discrimination is usually raised by showing that the employee;

  • Belongs to a protected class (i.e., comes from a country different from that of the Company’s management or the majority of workers).
  • Was subjected to an adverse employment action (like termination, demotion, suspension).
  • Similarly situated employees outside the protected class were treated differently and more favorably.

In addition to raising an inference of discrimination in the manner set forth above, an employee may do so via statistical evidence, comparative evidence, or direct evidence. Direct evidence, such as discriminatory comments made by the decisionmaker, is often the most persuasive.

However, in larger companies, it may be possible to use statistical analysis to demonstrate that the employer systematically discriminates against a particular group of people of a national origin in hiring, promotions and terminations. Such evidence would raise an inference that the action taken against a particular employee of that national origin was also infected by animus or prejudice. Comparative evidence also raises an inference of discrimination by showing that different rules and standards were applied for persons of different national origin.

Because discrimination cases usually turn on specific facts, and there is usually a 1-year time limit for filing, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a potentially discriminatory action has been taken.
DISCLAIMER: This website is intended to provide general information only. Nothing contained in this article, or on this website, is intended to provide legal advice. By using this website you acknowledge and agree that you have not formed an attorney-client relationship with Gonzalez Law and will not not rely on any information contained on this website without personally speaking with one of our attorneys. You further understand and acknowledge that Gonzalez Law strongly encourages anyone who believes they may have a claim to communicate directly with a lawyer, whether from Gonzalez Law or any other firm.