Impulso Legal

Civil Rights Violations

When the Civil Rights Act of 1964 passed, it became unlawful for employers, corporation, institutions of learning and even individuals to deny a person of their civil rights. Civil rights are a specific set of rights, rules and laws that prevent individuals from being discriminated against because of their gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age, religion or country of origin. Legally, people can be excluded when an organization sets forth certain criteria that supports the organization's vision or mission. This sometimes makes it difficult for people to know what types of exclusions are legal versus which ones qualify as civil rights discrimination.

Private organizations are able to operate in accordance with civil rights laws while simultaneously excluding certain individuals from gaining membership. For example, there are many education scholarships that are open to religious, racial and political groups, however, they must still consider applications from individuals that do not meet their criteria. Federally funded learning institutions can accept students with these types of scholarships but the universities and colleges themselves must operate in accordance with the law.

A civil rights violation can happen in virtually any type of setting. Persons who make contact with civil servants can have their civil rights violated if disparaging remarks are made against them. Alternatively, customers may be discriminated against if a company employee attempts to circumvent their company's ethics policies. When a person feels that their civil rights were violated there are a few different courses of action that can be taken. First, the event must be documented so that the victim can support their allegations. Next, a letter can be written to high ranking officials, or a phone call can be made to the public relations department. Sometimes an apology and disciplinary action is all that it takes to rectify these situations, but in the event that the alleged offender is non-responsive more forceful action can be taken.

Civil rights attorneys are experts in this area of law. When alleged civil rights allegations are widespread a press conference may be called to alert the media. When a company or organization comes under public scrutiny it is much easier to have an open dialogue. Some cases of civil rights violation cases end up in the courtroom. If an organization's policies and bylaws are not compliant with civil rights laws the courts may end up forcing the organization to make changes.

Sometimes when companies enforce their policies it can be mistaken for being civil rights violations. False accusations can be damaging to the reputation of a company, but there is often little recourse. This is why many companies work to educate their staff on civil rights codes. If an employee is found to repeatedly disregard these laws, the ultimate result is usually termination.

06.02.2010. 02:29