Those who emigrate to the United States often hope to obtain a better life for themselves and their family members. However, they are often at a marked disadvantage when it comes to securing the best opportunities. For example, racism and language barriers put people at a disadvantage when looking for rental homes or jobs.
There are employers and landlords who intentionally target immigrants and those with a language barrier because their business practices violate state or federal laws. Even after violations occur, immigrants may not understand how to assert their rights and fight back. Educating those who are new to the United States is crucial to helping people assert their basic rights, which is exactly what Darren Rumack and Elizabeth Rios from The Klein Law Group, PC recently did.
Educational sessions aim to help immigrants understand their rights
The New Immigrant Community Employment (NICE) event focused on immigrant worker education. NICE is an organization based in Queens where immigrants looking to improve their economic circumstances can connect with resources and support.
Recently, firm partner Darren Rumack and chief paralegal Elizabeth Rios taught a class on wage and hour law and basic employment law at NICE. The goal was to extend the firm’s expertise directly to the community of new immigrants helping enrich Queens. The class was engaging and well attended, and it reflects the commitment of the Klein Law Group, PC to help immigrants.
The truth is that immigrants, including those without documentation, typically have the same rights as any other worker in New York City. Unfortunately, employers are often eager to steamroll over these workers’ rights or lie to them about what protections they have. In some cases, immigrant workers are at higher risk on the job, as is the case for younger Hispanic construction workers, because employers don’t provide them with training or don’t prioritize compliance with safety regulations.
When employees know their rights, they have an easier time standing up for themselves. Programs like the recent employment law educational course at NICE can help those who are hoping to improve their circumstances make the best of their presence in the United States. Additionally, reaching out to a team that cares about the rights of immigrants can help those who need to take legal action after a workplace violation.