Discrimination in the workplace isn’t always based solely on race or national origin—it can also stem from differences in skin tone or complexion. If you’re working in Atlantic County and believe you’ve been treated unfairly because of your skin color, you may be the victim of color discrimination, and you have powerful legal protections under state and federal law.
What Is Color Discrimination?
Color discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated differently because of the color, shade, or tone of their skin. This form of discrimination may occur even among individuals of the same race or ethnic background. It includes unfair treatment in hiring, promotions, discipline, compensation, termination, and workplace harassment.
Examples of Color Discrimination
- Favoring lighter-skinned employees for promotions or client-facing roles
- Racial slurs or comments directed at someone’s skin tone
- Assigning less desirable tasks to darker-complexioned workers
- Making jokes, comments, or comparisons based on skin color
- Retaliating against someone for complaining about color-based bias
Legal Protections You Have
Employees in New Jersey are protected by two main legal frameworks:
- New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): Prohibits employment discrimination based on color, race, and other protected traits. It applies to all employers in New Jersey, regardless of size.
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: A federal law that makes it illegal for employers to discriminate based on color.
Your Rights as an Employee
If you’re facing color discrimination, you have the right to:
- File an internal complaint with your HR department or management
- Seek reasonable accommodations and equal treatment
- Work in a harassment-free environment
- Take legal action if the behavior continues or you are retaliated against
Steps to Take if You’re Facing Color Discrimination
- Document everything: Keep a record of discriminatory incidents, including dates, people involved, and any communications.
- Report internally: File a complaint according to your employer’s procedures.
- Contact an employment attorney: If your employer fails to take corrective action, or if retaliation occurs, seek legal counsel.
What Compensation Can You Seek?
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to:
- Back pay and lost wages
- Emotional distress damages
- Punitive damages (in severe cases)
- Reinstatement or promotion
- Attorney’s fees and legal costs
How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help
Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys represent workers in Atlantic County who have suffered from color discrimination. Their experienced team understands how subtle—and deeply harmful—this form of bias can be, and they will work tirelessly to hold employers accountable and secure the justice you deserve.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Today
If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly because of your skin color, don’t stay silent. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today for a confidential consultation and start taking action to protect your rights.
New Jersey Office
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
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New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
