Discrimination based on the color of your skin is a violation of your dignity—and your rights. Sadly, color-based bias remains a problem in workplaces across Atlantic City. Whether you’ve experienced unequal treatment, harassment, or retaliation because of your skin tone or complexion, you have legal options. At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, our experienced employment attorneys are here to Protect Your Rights and help you seek justice.

What Is Color Discrimination?

Color discrimination involves treating an employee or job applicant unfavorably because of their skin color, pigmentation, shade, or complexion. This is distinct from racial discrimination—though the two often overlap. Color discrimination can occur between individuals of the same race or ethnic group and is just as unlawful as other forms of workplace bias.

Examples of Color Discrimination

1. Favoring lighter-skinned employees for promotions or hiring
2. Making derogatory comments about someone’s skin tone
3. Assigning less desirable work based on complexion
4. Using slurs or jokes referencing color
5. Retaliating against an employee who reports such behavior

These forms of discrimination often go unreported—but that doesn’t mean they’re legal or acceptable.

Legal Protections in New Jersey

Employees in Atlantic City are protected under both federal and state laws:

1. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits employment discrimination based on color in all aspects of employment.
2. New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): Broadly protects against discrimination and allows for greater damages than federal law, including emotional distress and punitive damages.

Recognizing a Hostile Work Environment

Color discrimination doesn’t always involve obvious actions. Sometimes, it creates a hostile work environment where an employee feels unwelcome, intimidated, or constantly targeted. If the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to interfere with your work performance or mental health, you may have grounds for a claim.

What to Do If You’re a Victim

1. Keep a detailed log of discriminatory incidents (dates, people involved, what was said or done)
2. Report the behavior to your supervisor or HR department in writing
3. Do not sign anything waiving your rights without legal review
4. Speak with an experienced employment lawyer as soon as possible

How Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Can Help

Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is a top-rated employment law firm serving Atlantic City and beyond. We have successfully handled numerous color discrimination cases and are prepared to help you hold your employer accountable. Our attorneys will evaluate your case, file necessary complaints with state or federal agencies, and pursue compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages if applicable.

We believe that everyone deserves to be judged on merit—not the shade of their skin.

Stand Up Against Discrimination in Atlantic City

If you’ve been treated unfairly due to your complexion or skin tone, you don’t have to accept it. You have rights, and we’re ready to defend them.

Atlantic City Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys are here to fight for justice and dignity in your workplace.

Contact Information

New Jersey Office:
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924

New York Office:
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781