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, 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. Race discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their employee differently from other employees who are of a different race or nationality.
To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Quincy employee must also show 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 proven if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.
How Can a Quincy Lawyer Help with My Claim?
Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to establish intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Quincy 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 forms of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.