Racial discrimination is banned 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. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Pittsburg plaintiff must additionally prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Pittsburg Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be shown by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Pittsburg lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. 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.