Which documents are acceptable for verifying work eligibility
of non-U.S. citizens?
Can my company require "English language-only"
workplace policies?
Which hiring practices can lead to discrimination lawsuits?
Starting this month, small business employers will find
answers to these and other questions at a brand new web site:
The new site provides quick and easy access to immigration
related employment law, as well as an interactive quiz and resource links.
"This is a great new source of information for small and
medium-sized businesses about a complex subject, " commented Bob Watt,
President & CEO of the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce. "This new
Immigrant Employment web site has easily accessible information to promote fair
employment practices and clear information about immigrant employment law. I am
sure this will prove to be a very helpful resource for business owners."
Visitors to the site can access up-to-date information on
topics ranging from legal hiring and firing, national origin discrimination,
document abuse and tips to avoid workplace practices that could lead to
discrimination lawsuits. Visitors also can test their knowledge of the law by
taking the "Employer Challenge." Click on "Discrimination
Quiz" and the site will pose a situation like this:
Cracklin Chiropractic Clinic employs a substantial number of
Russians. Cracklin’s hiring process tests applicants’ English language
skills because the clinic enforces an English-Only rule at all times except
during breaks or lunch. Does Cracklin’s policy illegally discriminate against
some of the clinic’s employees?
The answer to each situation provides a concise explanation of
the law. Check out the web site to find the answer to the above question.
"Using the web is a cost-effective and immediate method
to communicate with the business community," said Germaine Covington,
Director of the Seattle Office for Civil Rights. "The value to businesses
will continue long after the grant has finished. As the law changes, we can
continue to update the web site to reflect current conditions."
This special project represents a partnership between the City
of Seattle’s Office for Civil Rights (SOCR) and the Northwest Immigrant Rights
Project (NWIRP). While SOCR focuses on employer education, the NWIRP plans to
conduct its own information campaign among immigrants statewide.
The project is funded by the U. S. Department of Justice –
Civil Rights Division, Office for Special Counsel for immigration-Related Unfair
Employment Practices, as part of its mission to enforce the anti-discrimination
provision of the Immigration and Naturalization Act.
To tour the web site, log on to www.cityofseattle.net/EmployingImmigrants.
For more information about the project or to request information in an
alternative format, contact Reina Jackson at the Seattle Office for Civil
Rights, (206) 684-4500.
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Office for Civil Rights
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