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.

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Easthampton employee must also prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. The employer's intent can often be proven by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can an Easthampton Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to establish intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so an Easthampton lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Massachusetts lawyer will be able to help you out, and they can also point you towards other types of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.