Know Your Rights: How Civil Rights Protections Work in Washington
Juneteenth, observed on June 19, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality. While the legal end of slavery marked a major turning point in American history, the promise of equal rights remains an evolving struggle—especially within our modern legal system.
In Washington State, civil rights laws aim to protect individuals from discrimination, abuse of power, and unfair treatment in areas such as policing, housing, employment, and public accommodations.
Civil Rights and the Legacy of Juneteenth
Juneteenth reminds us that justice delayed is justice denied. It also prompts us to reflect on how modern civil rights laws are meant to prevent inequality from persisting in new forms—through racial profiling, over-policing, housing segregation, and systemic discrimination.
Washington’s state and federal laws offer a framework to combat these injustices. These rights are not just historical milestones—they are legal protections you can assert today.
Protections Against Police Misconduct
Under both federal law (42 U.S.C. § 1983) and Washington’s constitution, individuals have the right to be free from excessive force, unlawful searches and seizures, and wrongful arrest. Recent state reforms have increased transparency and accountability in law enforcement.
If an officer violates your rights—such as through racial profiling, unnecessary use of force, or an illegal stop—you may be entitled to file a complaint with the agency, pursue a civil rights lawsuit, or both.
Housing Discrimination Laws in Washington
The Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Landlords and property managers cannot refuse to rent or offer different terms based on a protected characteristic.
Additionally, under the federal Fair Housing Act, victims of housing discrimination can file complaints with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the Washington State Human Rights Commission.
Employment and Public Accommodation Protections
WLAD also covers workplace discrimination. Employees are protected against racial harassment, discriminatory firing, and being denied promotions or benefits due to race or ethnicity.
In public accommodations—such as restaurants, stores, and services—Washington law guarantees that no one can be denied access or treated differently based on protected traits.
What To Do If Your Rights Are Violated
- Document the incident: Record dates, witnesses, and any communications.
- File complaints: With local law enforcement oversight boards, HUD, or the Washington Human Rights Commission.
- Contact a civil rights attorney: Legal representation is often critical in civil rights cases, which can involve complex factual and legal issues.
Why Knowing Your Rights Matters
Civil rights protections are only effective when individuals know and assert them. Juneteenth is not only a time to celebrate progress—it’s a time to recommit to equal justice under the law.
By understanding your rights, you help hold institutions accountable and participate in shaping a more just legal system.
Contact the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer
At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we are committed to protecting the civil rights of individuals across Washington. Whether you’ve experienced police misconduct, housing discrimination, or racial profiling, our team is here to advocate for you. If your rights have been violated, don’t wait. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.