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 Pennsylvania. Employers may not take race into account according to these laws when hiring or recruiting workers, or when deciding wages and promotion offers.

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 issue to court. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than workers who are of another racial background.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Indiana plaintiff must also show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can an Indiana 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 of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Indiana lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. Also, a Pennsylvania attorney can assist 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.