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, 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.

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the East Longmeadow employee must additionally prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. This intent is most often proven by showing that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can an East Longmeadow Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to establish intent. Laws of procedure vary greatly in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local East Longmeadow 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.