NMDWS Protects the Employment Rights of the LGBTQ Community in New Mexico
For Immediate Release
Thursday, April 25, 2019
Contact: Stacy Johnston
Acting Public Information Officer
505.250.3926
NMDWS Protects the Employment Rights of the LGBTQ Community in New Mexico
The Human Rights Bureau enforces the provisions of the Human Rights Act
(Albuquerque) – The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, Human Rights Bureau enforces the law and protects the rights of New Mexicans against discrimination in the areas of employment, housing, credit, and public accommodation. The New Mexico Human Rights Act (NMHRA), NMSA 1978, Section 28-1-7 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, ancestry, sex, age, physical and mental handicap, serious medical condition, spousal affiliation, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Individuals who believe that they have been discriminated against may file a complaint with the Human Rights Bureau within 300 days of the last act of discrimination or harassment.
“The U.S. Supreme Court is currently hearing cases on whether sexual orientation and gender identity are covered by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, but know that here in New Mexico, discrimination on these bases is absolutely against the law,” said Secretary Bill McCamley. “Our agency is responsible for enforcing both the New Mexico Human Rights Act and Title VII of the federal Civil Rights Act. If individuals do have complaints of discrimination, they may contact our Human Rights Bureau.”
The Human Rights Bureau can assist individuals with the process of filing a complaint. The investigation is a thorough, non-biased process through which the facts of the case are established. Contact the Human Rights Bureau by calling 505-827-6838 or toll-free at 800-566-9471, or by visiting the Department’s website at https://www.dws.state.nm.us/en-us/Labor-Relations/Human-Rights/Filing-a-Complaint-of-Discrimination.
"Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity has no place in New Mexico -- indeed, it has no place anywhere,” said Governor Lujan Grisham. “We should strive every day to build a more inclusive New Mexico. Whenever and wherever those essential personal liberties come under siege, we must stand together as neighbors and members of our extended New Mexico family."
Information for employers is also available on the Department’s website (https://www.dws.state.nm.us/en-us/Labor-Relations/Human-Rights/Information-for-Employers) to ensure they are in compliance with the Human Rights Act. Trainings may be requested to take place at an employer’s place of business to managers and/or staff in regards to the law, enforcement of the law, compliance issues, and how to contact the Human Rights Bureau for any questions.
###