Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited 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 Freetown employee must further prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. 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 a Freetown Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to prove intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Freetown lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced Massachusetts lawyer will also assist you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other types of relief while your claim is being processed.