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

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Lancaster County employee must also prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. Intent may be proved by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Lancaster County Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be established by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Lancaster County lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Pennsylvania 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.