English-only can be discriminatory.(LODGING TODAY: SPEAKING OUT)

Lodging Hospitality,  September, 2006  by Morrison, David E.; Sullivan, Michael L.

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While in theory a hotel should be able to manage all aspects of guest interaction, including requiring that employees speak only English in the workplace, such rules can conflict with Title VII and guidelines issued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

This potential conflict is best reflected in a recent settlement between the EEOC and The Melrose Hotel Co. of New York. In that case, 13 employees received an $800,000 settlement for complaints of a hostile work environment--which included allegations that Hispanic employees were subjected to an English-only ...

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