To work in a Welsh pub, isn’t it obvious that a knowledge of Welsh and British culture is essential?
When we said “being an ex-pat is a plus” in a help wanted ad posted on Craigslist, we were slapped with a violation from the NYC Human Rights Commission.
Our “crime”? Discrimination based on national origin. The fine – $2500.
I contacted the attorney for the HRC and tried to explain that in order to provide our customers with an authentic pub experience it was essential that our staff have intimate knowledge of British culture. We don’t hire only Welsh and other Brits – half of our bar staff is American. What they all have in common is a deep understanding of British culture.
They all know that the Princess of Wales is not in fact Welsh, who St David is and that the national sport of Wales is not football but rugby.
The attorney for HRC countered that I could train someone in Welsh and British culture, a notion that is not only absurd but insulting to Welsh people and Brits everywhere.
We are committed to defending ourselves and won’t just pay the fine to make this go away, as we don’t believe we’ve done anything wrong. We certainly do not discriminate. And we’ve retained legal counsel – the best defense is a good offense!
Please click on the button below to make a donation to our legal defense fund.
Your support is greatly appreciated!
Diolch yn fawr,
Jen & Mike
For all the gory details, click on the links below:
A British Pub’s Offense? Favoring the British NY Times
NY Welsh Pub Longbow faces discrimination fine BBC News Wales
Owners of British Pub Fight for Right to Hire Brits if They Jolly Well Please Gothamist
Welsh pub in NY faces fine over job advert ITV
