Racial discrimination is prohibited in Iowa 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?

Before taking their discrimination claim to court, an employee must file their claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is the federal agency which has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. 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 Maquoketa plaintiff further needs to show that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. Intent may be proved by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Maquoketa Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to prove intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Maquoketa lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, an Iowa 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.