Breaking Down the Seattle Caste Discrimination Ban

In a historical move, Seattle has become the first US city to outlaw caste-based discrimination.

• The bill was presented to the Seattle City Council and received approval with a 6-1 majority vote.
• Its primary objective is to prevent businesses from discriminating against individuals based on their caste in matters of wages, job tenure, promotions, hiring, and workplace conditions.
• Additionally, the new law forbids caste-based discrimination in public accommodation spaces, such as public transportation, hotels, retail stores, and public restrooms. It also extends to housing rental leases, property sales, and mortgage loans.
• As reported by Equality Labs, caste-based discrimination has increasingly become a major factor in workplace bias and discrimination. Their studies reveal that one in four individuals oppressed due to their caste have suffered physical and verbal assault, one in three have experienced educational discrimination, and two in three have faced workplace discrimination.
• This legislation has been applauded by Dalit groups across the US.
• However, some groups such as the Hindu American Foundation have voiced their opposition, claiming that it unjustly places Hindu Americans under additional legal scrutiny.
• Washington state is home to over 167,000 South Asians, a majority of whom reside in the Greater Seattle area.

What are the reasons behind the opposition from Hindu groups?

Certain Hindu organizations have expressed their disagreement with this legislation due to several reasons:

• The law could potentially cause divisions within the Indian American community, and there is a chance that other cities may follow in Seattle's footsteps.
• They argue that the legislation could result in increased anti-Hindu discrimination in the United States.
• The law might also deter employers from hiring South Asians.