December 8, 2022

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The Justice Department now provides resources to assist Ukrainians and Afghans concerning employment rights. For example, a hotline will become available for workers concerned about possible employment discrimination. Such discrimination includes their immigration status, national origin, or citizenship. In addition, the Justice Department hopes to give Ukrainian and Afghan immigrants a better understanding of their employment rights in this country.

The information contained in these resources explains the rights of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The INA bans employers from discriminating against applicants or employees authorized to work in the United States. Employers cannot discriminate based on immigration status, national origin, or citizenship. In addition, federal law protects workers from being discriminated against based on national origin as well.

The Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Kristen Clarke, stated that part of preventing unlawful discrimination is ensuring workers know their rights. She also said that the Civil Rights Division would help Ukrainian and Afghan immigrants. Furthermore, the division will use all the tools to ensure no one faces discrimination in the workforce.

Not all Ukrainians and Afghans in the United States have the same immigration status. For example, some immigrants have entered the country through Uniting for Ukraine and Operation Allies Welcome. However, these individuals could have a variety of immigration statuses. As such, the Justice Department provides information for individuals in different situations. For example, individuals can find fact sheets for refugees, individuals granted parole under Operation Allies Welcome or Uniting for Ukraine, asylees, lawful permanent residents, and individuals with Temporary Protected Status.

These fact sheets explain how the INA protects workers from discrimination during employment eligibility verification (Form I-9). This process checks an applicant’s permission to work in the United States. The information provides examples of the types of documentation employees may present during the process. Furthermore, it stresses that employees must show valid documentation proving their identity and work authorization.

The fact sheets also inform Ukrainians and Afghans in the U.S. how they can obtain assistance with employment-related issues using the Civil Rights Division’s Employee Rights Section worker hotline. This hotline is free of charge to any worker with questions concerning workplace discrimination based on immigration status, national origin, or citizenship.

Employment eligibility verification can also prove confusing for employers. The best way to ensure compliance when completing the I-9 is to use an electronic I-9 management system. The system guides employers through the entire process and safely stores the forms.

When it comes to your employees, automation makes eligibility verification quick and simple. Ensure compliance today with I-9 Compliance.

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