Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is banned in Illinois. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, deciding pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are done by the agency called the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Employees who are victims of discrimination are required to file their claim with the EEOC before filing suit in a court of law. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Sangamon County plaintiff must additionally show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The required intent may be shown by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Sangamon County Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some instances, intent to discriminate may also be shown by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Sangamon County attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Additionally, an Illinois attorney can assist you when you file your claim with the EEOC, and they may be able to help you obtain other kinds of relief during the time period when your case is pending.