The mission of the Office of Diversity and Compliance is to foster equity, diversity, and inclusion in the campus community and ensure a learning and working environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. Consistent with this commitment, and in compliance with all applicable laws and University policies, the Office is responsible for educational initiatives designed to promote diversity and respect, preparing and disseminating various reports, and investigating complaints of discrimination and harassment. www.york.cuny.edu/president/diversity-and-compliance
Protection against Discrimination*
The New York City Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination on the basis of actual or perceived “alienage and citizenship status,” and “national origin,” by most employers, housing providers, and providers of public accommodations in New York City. It also prohibits discriminatory harassment and bias-based profiling by law enforcement. https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/cchr/downloads/pdf/publications/immigration-guidance.pdf
Employment*
Under federal law employers can refuse to hire or continue the employment of non citizens without work authorization as it is unlawful for employers to hire non-citizens without work authorization. https://labor.ny.gov/ui/claimantinfo/beforeyouapplyfaq.shtm#23
DACA beneficiaries may continue to use their SSN to work as an independent contractor or start a business; both options do not require work authorization. https://immigrantsrising.org/wp-content/uploads/Immigrants-Rising_Basic-Facts-About-Entrepreneurship.pdf
NYS Youth Leadership Council: The Non-Citizen’s Guide to Entrepreneurship
Drivers’ Licenses*
All New Yorkers regardless of immigration status can obtain drivers’ licenses. https://www1.nyc.gov/site/immigrants/help/city-services/drivers-licenses-for-all.page and https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/driver-licenses-and-green-light-law
Free Tax Preparation
NYC FREE Virtual Tax Prep: The tax filing deadline for 2019 tax returns is July 15, 2020.
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/dca/consumers/file-your-taxes.page
Advocacy Organizations: Immigrants’ Rights
- Make the Road https://maketheroadny.org/issue/immigration/
- New York Immigrants Coalition https://www.nyic.org/
- The New York State Youth Leadership Council https://www.nysylc.org/
- The Hispanic Federation https://hispanicfederation.org/programs/immigration/
- National Immigration Law Center https://www.nilc.org/issues/daca/
Social Media
We Have Rights
Animated video resources to help students and families understand their rights in their home and on the streets.
Informed Immigrant Instagram Page
Highlights resources for educators and families, and promotes positive mental health and wellness strategies.
