U.S. Immigration and Employment Discrimination

When you are hoping to come to the United States for your job or are already working in the U.S. and would like to continue your job as an immigrant, you may face some hurdles. Coming to the U.S. can be exciting but difficult as an immigrant and you want to make sure that you consider each step before filing your application and possibly even work with a lawyer throughout the process. Many people immigrate to the U.S. because they have hopes and dreams of building a better life and taking care of their families. 

Are there any challenges that immigrants specifically face when it comes to employment? 

Absolutely. Many immigrants find that they are working in very dangerous situations and they are not getting paid well to do it. If you find yourself working with an employer who does any of the following, it may be time to contact a lawyer, like an immigration lawyer Des Moines, IA from a law firm like Law Group of Iowa

  • You have not been offered the necessary training for dangerous equipment or have not been offered the safety equipment
  • Your employer or other colleagues discriminate against you, harass you, or make racial slurs against you
  • Your employer forces you to work long hours and refuses to pay overtime
  • Your employer does not pay you the minimum wage

All too many times, immigrants have found themselves in situations where they are unsure of what their rights are or even fully understand that their rights are being trampled and cannot make a complaint without concern for getting fired or deported. 

What can I do if I face harassment at work? 

All too many people who have immigrated to the U.S. are who are perceived immigrants face hardship at work in the form of harassment and discrimination. This kind of behavior is completely unacceptable. It is important to remember that employers are responsible for this kind of behavior, whether it comes straight from your employer or from others who work at the company. Further, if your employer threatens to deport you if you disagree with them or report harassment happening, this is also considered to be unlawful harassment and you should not have to face it alone. 

If you are an immigrant employed in the U.S. and are facing harassment or discrimination in the workplace, do not hesitate to reach out to a local lawyer who can help you today.