In New York, racial discrimination is prohibited under both the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code. 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?

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 matter to court. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Mastic plaintiff further needs to show that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. The required intent may be proven by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Mastic Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to prove intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and a Mastic attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Furthermore, a New York attorney can help you when you file your claim with the EEOC, and they may be able to help you obtain other kinds of relief during the time period when your case is pending.