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, deciding 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 that has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

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

How Can an Island 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 prove intent. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and Island Lake attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. Furthermore, an Illinois attorney can assist you when you file your claim with the EEOC, and they may be able to help you obtain other kinds of relief during the time period when your case is pending.