Racial discrimination is prohibited in California under the U.S. constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code. According to such laws, an employer cannot use race as the basis for making decisions regarding hiring, recruitment, wage levels, or promotion opportunities.
What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?
Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are conducted 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. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.
To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Oakland employee must further prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. Intent may be proved by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.
How Can an Oakland Lawyer Help with My Claim?
In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be proven by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Oakland lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a California lawyer will be able to help you out, and they can also point you towards other types of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.