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.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Watertown plaintiff must additionally show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Intent may be shown by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Watertown Lawyer Help with My Claim?

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