Document Type
Blog Post
Publication Date
12-2025
Abstract
Although undocumented workers are protected from workplace discrimination through federal and state laws, increasingly common immigration raids on workplaces coupled with widespread racist sentiment has caused some employers to preemptively terminate employees they suspect are undocumented. Even if undocumented workers succeed in keeping their employment, employers often weaponize the threat of immigration enforcement to create an environment of exploitation in which undocumented workers feel they cannot report abusive employer conduct.
This article will outline the legal protections afforded to undocumented people in the workplace, as well as detailing empirical studies that outline the types of discrimination undocumented workers often experience. It will briefly touch on contemporary context to the discussion, such as the immigration raids on workplaces taking place across the country.
Recommended Citation
Zipperian, Nathan C.; Xiao, Mark; and Siegenthaler, Kari, "WORKERS’ RIGHTS: LEGAL PROTECTIONS AGAINST DISCRIMINATION FOR UNDOCUMENTED EMPLOYEES" (2025). Immigration Law Blog. 19.
https://insight.dickinsonlaw.psu.edu/ilsblog/19