Discrimination in Places of Public Accommodation: Understanding the New York State Human Rights Law

Date of Publication: October 15, 2021

Discrimination is a pervasive issue that affects individuals in various aspects of their lives. In New York State, there are laws in place to protect individuals from discrimination in places of public accommodation, resorts, or amusement. These laws aim to ensure equal treatment and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics.

Understanding the New York State Human Rights Law

The New York State Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination in places of public accommodation, resorts, or amusement based on various protected characteristics. These protected characteristics include race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, sex, disability, marital status, and status as a victim of domestic violence.

Under this law, it is considered unlawful discriminatory practice to refuse, withhold, or deny any accommodations, advantages, facilities, or privileges to a person based on their protected characteristics. This includes the extension of credit and any other benefits or services provided by the establishment.

Scope of the Law

The law applies to any person who is the owner, lessee, proprietor, manager, superintendent, agent, or employee of a place of public accommodation, resort, or amusement. These places include hotels, restaurants, theaters, sports arenas, and other establishments that are open to the public.

Additionally, the law prohibits the publication, circulation, issuance, display, posting, or mailing of any written or printed communication, notice, or advertisement that indicates that any accommodations, advantages, facilities, or privileges of the establishment will be denied to a person based on their protected characteristics.

Amendment to the Law

It is important to note that the law will be amended effective May 13, 2022, to include "status as a victim of domestic violence" as a protected characteristic. This amendment recognizes the unique challenges faced by individuals who have experienced domestic violence and aims to provide them with the same protections against discrimination.

Promoting Equality and Fairness

Overall, the New York State Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination in places of public accommodation, resorts, or amusement based on various protected characteristics. It ensures that individuals are not denied any accommodations, advantages, facilities, or privileges based on their race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, sex, disability, marital status, or status as a victim of domestic violence. This law promotes equality and fairness in public spaces and aims to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals.

For more information or to report a case of discrimination, you can contact the New York State Division of Human Rights at [contact info].