The Human Rights Law in New York protects you from discrimination. You can file a discrimination complaint about employment, education, credit, purchasing or renting a home or commercial space, and more, for discrimination based on your:

  • Race
  • Creed (what you believe)
  • Color
  • National origin (where your family comes from)
  • Sexual orientation
  • Military status
  • Sex
  • Age
  • Marital status
  • Domestic violence victim status
  • Disability
  • Pregnancy-related condition
  • Predisposing genetic characteristics
  • Prior arrest or conviction record
  • Gender Identity or Expression
  • Familial status
  • Lawful source of income (in housing only)
  • Retaliation for opposing unlawful discriminatory practices


You can file a complaint about discrimination with the Division of Human Rights. Then they will investigate - and may present the case in a public hearing.

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Last Reviewed: May 17, 2023