Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is banned in Massachusetts. These laws prohibit employers from taking race into account in procedures for hiring, deciding 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 issue to court. 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 Andover plaintiff must additionally show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can an Andover Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to establish their intent to discriminate. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and Andover attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. An experienced Massachusetts lawyer will also help you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.