In New York, racial discrimination is banned 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 federal agency that is in charge of investigations of workplace discrimination is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Before taking matters to court, employees who have been discriminated against must file their claim with the EEOC. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Smithtown plaintiff must additionally prove that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Smithtown Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to show intent. Laws of procedure vary greatly in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Smithtown lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a New York lawyer will be able to help you out, and they can also point you towards other types of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.