Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is illegal 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. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than workers who are of another racial background.

The Lynwood plaintiff must also be able to show that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Lynwood Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Also, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to prove intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Lynwood lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced Illinois lawyer will also guide you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.