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?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are done by the agency called the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Employees who are victims of discrimination are required to file their claim with the EEOC before filing suit in a court of law. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Silvis plaintiff must further show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be proven if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Silvis Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to show their intent to discriminate. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Silvis attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. An experienced Illinois lawyer will also assist you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.