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 successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Kane County employee must further prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Kane County 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. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Kane County lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. An experienced Illinois lawyer will also assist you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other types of relief while your claim is being processed.