I am a US citizen, and my English is fluent, but it is not my native tongue an when I am tired, my foreign accent comes out. It is actually quite slight, but still audible.
Often, when I would apply for jobs over the phone, I would notice the interviewer would become tense and ask me the " Where are you from originally?" question. When I would answer, there would be a mood of grave concern on the other end and they would never call me back. Mostly business jobs and all.
I also got called a "foreigner" on one job and told to "get out".
Once I was applying for a job as a teacher and the school asked me to fill out an application form. They had a "Place of Birth" box" which is illegal". I brought it to their attention and they said that the parents in the school were mainly Chinese and they would ask "where the teacher is from" before allowing that person teach their kids. What are legal recourses for foreign-born US citizens to combat such discrimination?
2007-07-14 23:58:13 · 3 answers · asked by MumbaJumba 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
That's sickening. They CANNOT discriminate like that in the US. Like the above poster said, you can report it to EEOC. http://www.eeoc.gov/contact.html
Speaking a second language is a *plus* for a company. That's how they should be looking at it. Please report those employers and make an example of them. Good Luck.
2007-07-15 00:20:14 · answer #1 · answered by tttplttttt 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Most jobs are now posted online and when it asks your race or sex you do not have to answer those questions until after you are hired.
Make sure your resume lists your qualifications and strengths so they can see that you have the skills for the job.
If you feel you have been discriminated against you can contact the EOC, Equal Opportunity Commission.
2007-07-15 07:06:13 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
What you are describing is illegal under US federal law.
Race, ancestry and national origin are equally protected under the 14th Amendment (and others) and are equally protected under federal law against discrimination.
You can file a law suit against these companies for civil rights violations. Consult an attorney licensed in your state.
2007-07-15 12:54:34 · answer #3 · answered by coragryph 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋