Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited in Illinois. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, determining pay or offering 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 able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Homer Glen plaintiff further 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 Homer Glen 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. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and Homer Glen attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A good Illinois attorney will also be able to help you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.