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. Race discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their worker differently from other workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Reading employee must additionally 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 Reading Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be shown by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and a Reading attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. 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.