Despite decades of progress, race discrimination continues to be a troubling reality in workplaces across Bergen County. Whether it’s overt prejudice or subtle bias woven into company culture, racial discrimination undermines dignity, limits opportunity, and violates the law. If you’ve been treated unfairly at work because of your race, you are not alone—and you have powerful legal protections available to you.


Understanding Race Discrimination


Race discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfavorably because of their race or characteristics associated with race, such as skin color, hair texture, or facial features. It can take many forms, including:



  • Refusal to hire or promote based on race

  • Unequal pay or job assignments

  • Racial slurs or offensive jokes in the workplace

  • Harassment or creating a hostile work environment

  • Retaliation after reporting discriminatory conduct


Whether these acts are intentional or not, they can result in a violation of New Jersey and federal anti-discrimination laws.


Legal Protections in New Jersey


The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) is one of the most comprehensive anti-discrimination statutes in the United States. It protects employees in Bergen County and throughout the state from discrimination based on race and other protected characteristics. Unlike federal law, NJLAD applies to all employers, regardless of size, and offers strong remedies to victims of discrimination.


Federal protections under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 also apply and prohibit race discrimination in employment decisions. Together, these laws give employees a solid foundation to challenge unfair and unlawful treatment in the workplace.


Recognizing a Hostile Work Environment


Racial discrimination is not always about hiring and firing. Sometimes, it manifests in the culture of the workplace itself. A hostile work environment exists when racial comments, conduct, or exclusion make it difficult for someone to do their job. This could include:



  • Frequent racial jokes or slurs

  • Being singled out or overly scrutinized

  • Exclusion from meetings, events, or opportunities



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  • Offensive symbols or imagery present in the workplace


If you’ve experienced this type of environment in Bergen County, it’s important to know that you don’t have to tolerate it—and that legal remedies are available.


Filing a Race Discrimination Claim


If you believe you’re facing race-based discrimination, take the following steps:



  • Document incidents: Record dates, times, comments, and the individuals involved.

  • Report the behavior: File a formal complaint with your employer’s HR department.

  • Consult an attorney: A legal expert can assess whether your experience meets the legal threshold for discrimination and guide you through filing a claim.


Claims can be filed through the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), but deadlines apply, so it’s essential to act quickly.


Legal Help for Victims in Bergen County


At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are proud to represent workers throughout Bergen County who have experienced discrimination on the job. Our attorneys are well-versed in New Jersey’s employment laws and bring aggressive, compassionate representation to every case we handle.


Whether you’re seeking compensation, reinstatement, or accountability, our team is here to fight for your rights and restore justice in your workplace.


Don’t Stay Silent—Stand Up for Your Rights


Race discrimination can take a toll on your emotional well-being, your finances, and your future. But you don’t have to face it alone. Legal support is available, and your voice deserves to be heard. Take action today and protect your rights under the law.


Contact Information


NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC

101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300

Roseland, NJ 07068

(973) 358-7027


About Us:

NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC represents employees across New Jersey in matters involving discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and wage and hour violations. Our firm is dedicated to advocating for fairness, dignity, and equality in the workplace.