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

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Spirit Lake employee must also prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. The employer's intent can often be proven by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Spirit Lake 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. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary widely depending on where the claim is filed, and Spirit Lake attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. An Iowa lawyer may also help you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.