Multiple research studies from both Canada and the U.S. have found that employers are less likely to interview and hire job applicants with Asian last names than with those with Anglo last names, Rhode Island Public Radio reports.
The most recent study, from researchers at two Canadian universities, found that job applicants who had Chinese, Indian or Pakistani last names were less likely to get interviewed for jobs than applicants with the same qualification who had Anglo last names.
Another study conducted in the U.S. last year found that Asian American and African American job applicants who “whitened” their resumes got more interviews and call-backs than those who didn’t.
Last year, evidence of systemic discrimination against Asian job applicants led the U.S. Department of Labor to file a lawsuit – still pending – against the software company Palantir Technologies, a government contractor. The Labor Department alleged that for certain positions, Asians made up 77 percent of applicants yet only 15 percent of new hires.
One thing is clear: despite laws against racial discrimination in employment – including in the hiring process – discrimination is still common. Job applicants, like employees, should remember that they are protected under federal and state law against racial discrimination in employment, as well as discrimination based on national origin, religion, sex and other characteristics.
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against in the hiring process or at your workplace, an employment lawyer can review your case and help you determine your options.