Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited in Michigan. Employers are barred according to theses laws from using race as a basis for hiring, recruitment, setting wage levels, or granting promotions.
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. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.
In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Grand Rapids plaintiff must further show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. 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 Grand Rapids 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 considerably, and so a Grand Rapids lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced Michigan lawyer will also assist you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.