What types of workplace discrimination are prohibited by law? What types are not?

Federal and New York State and New York City law prohibits discrimination on numerous basis including age, race, national origin, sexual identification,
disability, and being a caregiver status. Under Federal, State, and New York City law discrimination only exists if the discriminatory acts are because of a protected status. So if the employers targeting you for a particular reason but it’s unrelated to you being a member of a protected status then it’s not considered discrimination. For example, if your employer is just targeting you because the employer does not like you, that is not discrimination.

About the Author

Douglas Lipsky is a co-founding partner of Lipsky Lowe LLP. He has extensive experience in all areas of employment law, including discrimination, sexual harassment, hostile work environment, retaliation, wrongful discharge, breach of contract, unpaid overtime, and unpaid tips. He also represents clients in complex wage and hour claims, including collective actions under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act and class actions under the laws of many different states. If you have questions about this article, contact Douglas today.