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 Attleboro plaintiff must also prove that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.
How Can an Attleboro Lawyer Help with My Claim?
Additionally, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to prove their intent to discriminate. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Attleboro lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. A good Massachusetts attorney will also be able to assist you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.