Under the U.S. Constitution, as well as Title VII of the U.S. Code, it is illegal to discriminate on the basis of race in the state of Oregon. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, determining pay or offering 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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat workers differently than other workers who are of a different race.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Happy Valley plaintiff must also prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. Intent may be proved by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Happy Valley Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to prove their intent to discriminate. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Happy Valley lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, an Oregon 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.