Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is banned in Kentucky. According to such laws, an employer cannot use race as the basis for making decisions regarding hiring, recruitment, wage levels, or promotion opportunities.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are conducted 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. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Edgewood plaintiff must additionally prove that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. The required intent may be proven by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can an Edgewood 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. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Edgewood lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. An experienced Kentucky lawyer will also help you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other types of relief while your claim is being processed.