Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is illegal in Massachusetts. These laws prohibit employers from taking race into account in procedures for hiring, determining wage levels, or promotions and benefits.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency in charge of investigating workplace discrimination, and employees discriminated against must file a claim with the EEOC before taking the matter to court. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Agawam plaintiff must also prove that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. This intent is most often proven by showing that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can an Agawam Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to prove their intent to discriminate. Laws of procedure vary greatly in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Agawam lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. A Massachusetts lawyer may also help you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.