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, 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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

The Sturbridge plaintiff must additionally be able to show that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. 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 Sturbridge Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to establish their intent to discriminate. Laws of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Sturbridge lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. 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.