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, deciding 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 that has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Hood River plaintiff must also show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Hood River Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to establish intent. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary widely depending on where the claim is filed, and Hood River attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. An Oregon lawyer may also assist you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.