Education Programs on the Rights  of Non-Citizen Workers
Posted May 08, 2000

In an effort to disseminate information about the rights of non-citizen workers in the U.S., a new program has been set up. In this article of the MurthyBulletin, we are happy to share this information with you.

The Office of the Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment

Practices is an arm of the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. This Office recently announced the availability of funds to promote public education about the rights of non-citizen workers. The initiative is also designed to inform people about the duties of employers to refrain from discrimination under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

Some of you may be aware that discrimination by employers with fifteen or more employees is addressed under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. However, it is the INA that prohibits employers of between four to fourteen employees from discriminating on the basis of citizenship status or national origin. The classes of protected non-citizens include: Temporary Residents, legal Permanent Residents, as well as Asylees and Refugees.

The basis for this program is that research has shown a need for more education for individuals and employers about the anti-discrimination provisions of the INA. Both potential victims of discrimination and U.S. employers need to know their rights and obligations, respectively. To address this need, existing materials such as brochures, posters, booklets, information packets and videos must be distributed to both potential victims and U.S. employers.

Grants ranging from $40,000 to $100,000 are available to applicants who can design and carry out campaigns to address discrimination affecting immigrant workers. Applications may propose to educate workers, employers, or both. Candidates must have access to non-citizen workers or a proven ability to educate people about the provisions of the INA that deal with discrimination. Candidates may be non-profit organizations such as immigrants' rights advocacy groups, trade or workers' associations, government agencies, industry groups, or professional organizations. Applications are due by June 5, 2000. For complete information, contact Pattia McEvoy, Public Affairs Specialist, Office of Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices, at (202) 616-5594, or (202) 616- 5525 (TDD for the hearing impaired). Their e-mail address is: <osc.crt@usdoj.gov>.