Racial discrimination is illegal in Hawaii under the U.S. constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code. Employers are prohibited according to theses laws from using race as a basis for hiring, recruitment, setting wage levels, or granting promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The federal agency that is in charge of investigations of workplace discrimination is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Before taking matters to court, employees who have been discriminated against must file their claim with the EEOC. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Lihue plaintiff also needs to show that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. The required intent may be proven by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Lihue Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to establish intent. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Lihue lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. An experienced Hawaii lawyer will also guide you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other types of relief while your claim is being processed.