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

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 that has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you adversely than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

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

How Can a Bemidji Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to prove intent. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Bemidji lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Minnesota 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.