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?

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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat workers differently than other workers who are of a different race.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Scottdale plaintiff must also prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. Intent may be proved by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Scottdale 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 Scottdale 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.