Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited in Minnesota. Employers are prohibited 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?

Before taking their discrimination claim to court, an employee must file their claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is the federal agency which has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Belle Plaine plaintiff further needs to show that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. The employer's intent can often be proven by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Belle Plaine 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 greatly, and so a Belle Plaine lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. A good Minnesota attorney will also be able to help you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.