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 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?

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. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

The Nazareth plaintiff must further be able to prove that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. The required intent may be proven by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Nazareth Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be proven by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Nazareth lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Furthermore, a Pennsylvania attorney can help 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.