Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is banned 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.

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Mattoon employee must additionally show that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can a Mattoon Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to show intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Mattoon lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An Illinois lawyer may also assist you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.