A Message From Jen & Mike At The Longbow Welsh Pub New York

To work in a Welsh pub, isnt 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 dont hire only Welsh and other Brits half of our bar staff is American. What they all have in common is a deep understanding of Welsh and 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. The intimation was that since we are all English speaking people, there was no language barrier and therefore no difference between us. I didn't have the time or the energy to educate the attorney that Wales not only has it's own language but it is compulsory for children in school these days and has been for almost 15 years now.

We are committed to defending ourselves and wont just pay the fine to make this go away, as we dont believe weve done anything wrong. We certainly do not discriminate. And weve retained legal counsel the best defense is a good offense!

A legal defense fund has been set up to defray our legal costs. Your donation to our fund, in any amount, will help us mount the best defense possible. Please go to our website at www.longbownyc.com and click on the donate button to help.

Your support is greatly appreciated!

Diolch yn fawr,

Jen & Mike