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Discrimination law in Houston refers to the body of local, state, and federal regulations that protect individuals from unfair treatment based on protected characteristics. These characteristics can include race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and more. Discrimination can occur in the workplace, housing, public accommodations, education, and access to services. Houston residents are protected by both Texas state laws and federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Navigating these laws can be complex, especially when multiple jurisdictions apply.
A lawyer specializing in discrimination can help you understand your rights and identify possible violations. Legal advice is often necessary in situations such as the following:
A knowledgeable attorney can help you gather evidence, file complaints with the appropriate agency, represent you in negotiations or hearings, and pursue a lawsuit if necessary.
Residents of Houston are protected by several critical laws regarding discrimination:
It is also important to note the time limits for filing discrimination complaints. In most employment discrimination cases, you must file a complaint within 180 days of the alleged incident with the Texas Workforce Commission, or within 300 days with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, religion, disability, age, genetic information, and, in some cases, sexual orientation and gender identity is illegal in employment, housing, and certain public services.
No, retaliation for reporting or opposing discrimination is illegal. If you are fired, demoted, or otherwise punished for making a complaint, you may have a claim for retaliation.
To file an employment discrimination complaint, you can contact the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. For housing discrimination, reports are made to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or Houston’s Fair Housing Office.
No, discrimination is also illegal in housing, schools, public accommodations, government services, and some private services, depending on the law and protected category involved.
Evidence such as emails, witness statements, employment records, and patterns of adverse actions can help support a discrimination claim. A lawyer can advise on gathering and presenting this evidence.
Yes, federal law protects individuals from discrimination regardless of immigration status, especially in employment and certain public accommodations.
In most cases, you must file a charge within 180 days of the discrimination with the Texas Workforce Commission or within 300 days with the federal EEOC.
Generally, you must first file a complaint with an agency such as the EEOC or the Texas Workforce Commission before you can sue your employer in court.
Possible remedies can include monetary damages, reinstatement to your position, policy changes, and compensatory damages for emotional distress.
Houston ordinances typically align with state and federal discrimination laws, but some city programs and employees may have additional protections.
If you believe you have experienced discrimination, it is important to act promptly:
With the right legal support and knowledge of your rights, you can take meaningful steps toward addressing discrimination in Houston.
