Introduction
Arrest and conviction discrimination is a prevalent issue in today's society. It refers to the practice of discriminating against individuals who have been arrested or convicted of a crime. Such discrimination can take various forms, including denial of employment, housing, and education opportunities. In this article, we will discuss the different types of arrest and conviction discrimination, your rights as an individual, and how to protect yourself from such discrimination.
Types of Arrest and Conviction Discrimination
Arrest and conviction discrimination can occur in various areas of life, including employment, housing, and education. Let's take a closer look at each of these areas:
- Employment: Many employers have policies that prohibit them from hiring individuals with criminal records. This type of discrimination is illegal under federal law unless the employer can prove that the exclusion is job-related and consistent with business necessity.
- Housing: Landlords and property managers may refuse to rent to individuals with criminal records. However, such discrimination is only legal if the landlord can prove that the rental decision is based on legitimate business reasons.
- Education: Educational institutions may also discriminate against individuals with criminal records. However, such discrimination is only legal if the educational institution can prove that the exclusion is job-related and consistent with business necessity.
Your Rights
If you have been discriminated against due to your arrest or conviction record, you have the right to file a complaint with the appropriate agency. Here are some of the agencies that can help you with your complaint:
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): The EEOC is responsible for enforcing federal laws that prohibit employment discrimination. If you believe that you have been discriminated against by an employer, you can file a complaint with the EEOC.
- Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): The HUD is responsible for enforcing federal laws that prohibit housing discrimination. If you believe that you have been discriminated against by a landlord or property manager, you can file a complaint with the HUD.
- Department of Education (DOE): The DOE is responsible for enforcing federal laws that prohibit education discrimination. If you believe that you have been discriminated against by an educational institution, you can file a complaint with the DOE.
Protecting Yourself from Discrimination
To protect yourself from discrimination, you should be aware of your rights and take the following steps:
- Know your rights: Educate yourself on your rights as an individual with an arrest or conviction record.
- Be honest: When applying for a job, housing, or education, be honest about your criminal record.
- Seek legal advice: If you believe that you have been discriminated against, seek legal advice from an attorney who specializes in discrimination law.
Conclusion
Arrest and conviction discrimination is a serious issue that affects many individuals. It is important to know your rights and protect yourself from such discrimination. If you have been discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint with the appropriate agency. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can protect yourself from discrimination and ensure that your rights are upheld.
