Sometimes you might experience a situation where you are treated unfairly because of who you are, and that is not okay. That’s why there are federal and state laws to protect you from many types of discrimination. You have the right to fair treatment, and if you were discriminated against, you may have options for what to do next.

This information is also available for download in the Know Your Rights Toolkit for Youth Experiencing Homelessness, pages 16-17.

What Are Antidiscrimination Laws?

Antidiscrimination laws protect people from being treated unfairly because of their identity. These laws make sure people have fair treatment in school, housing, health care, employment, and other areas.

What Kinds of Discrimination Do They Protect Me From?

Antidiscrimination laws can protect you from unfair treatment based on your:

  • Race
  • Color
  • Nation of origin (what country you were born in)
  • Sex (in some areas, this can include sexual orientation and gender identity)
  • Disability
  • Religion
  • Familial status (if you’re pregnant or have children)

How Can I File a Discrimination Complaint?

Take Charge of Your Rights

  • Write down exactly what happened as soon as you can so you can remember the details.

  • What was the situation?

  • Where and when did it happen?

  • Who was involved?

  • What kind of discrimination did you face?

  • Were there witnesses who can back you up?

  • Keep receipts—emails, texts, photos, etc.

  • Find out who you need to report your complaint to and what information they need.

  • File your complaint and track its progress—keep any updates you get, like emails.

  • What you can say: “I believe I was discriminated against because of my [race, religion, sexual orientation, etc]. The discrimination happened at [place]. How do I file a complaint?”