Do you know and understand your civil rights?

On Behalf of | Feb 1, 2022 | Civil Rights

You know that you have certain rights and privileges as an American citizen, but do you understand what those rights include? It is in your interests to know what protections and benefits the United States Constitution and other legal measures offer to you. It is difficult to know whether you are experiencing a violation of your rights if you do not understand them. It is beneficial to learn what you can about your civil rights.

Civil rights include some of the basic rights you have that protect you from unfair treatment, discrimination, overreach by law enforcement and unreasonable government intrusion into your life. Civil rights are expansive and applicable in various situations, including in education, housing opportunities, the pursuit of employment and public accommodations. If you experience a violation of your civil rights, you have the right to pursue legal action against the responsible parties.

Basics of your civil rights

You have the right to equality and fair treatment regardless of factors that include gender, race, national origin, religion, disability, sex, age and more. Many of your civil rights come from the constitution, particularly constitutional amendments. Legal acts that also grant certain civil rights include:

  • Age Discrimination in Employment Act
  • Fair Housing Act
  • Americans with Disabilities Act
  • Voting rights Act

In addition to the civil rights granted to you on a federal level, you also have certain rights from state laws as well. The concept of civil rights centers around the concept of being able to live, work, seek education and enjoy life without unfair or illegal treatment. Your civil rights are important, and if you experienced a violation of these entitlements at work, when seeking housing or in other aspects of your life, there are legal options available to you.

After a violation of your rights

Knowing and understanding your civil rights is the first step in protecting your interests, especially in situations in which you may be a victim of discrimination or facing other types of unfair treatment. Legal action, specifically a claim through the New Mexico civil justice system, is a reasonable response to a violation of your civil rights. Your pursuit of justice can begin immediately after you experience a violation, starting with seeking an understanding of the options available to you in your specific situation.

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