Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is illegal in Indiana. 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?

The federal agency known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has the power to conduct investigations of workplace discrimination, and employees must file their discrimination claims wih the EEOC prior to suing in a civil court. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than workers who are of another racial background.

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

How Can a Valparaiso Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some instances, intent to discriminate may also be established by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Valparaiso lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, an Indiana lawyer will be able to help you out, and they can also point you towards other forms of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.