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, 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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat workers differently than other workers who are of a different race.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Mount Zion plaintiff must additionally prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. Intent may be proved by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Mount Zion Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be shown by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and Mount Zion attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A good Illinois attorney will also be able to advise you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.