Under the U.S. Constitution, as well as Title VII of the U.S. Code, it is prohibited 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 Independence plaintiff must further 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 an Independence Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to show intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and an Independence attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. 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.