Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited 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 West Lafayette plaintiff must further show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a West Lafayette Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to show intent. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local West Lafayette lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. An experienced Indiana 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.