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 federal agency known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has the power to conduct investigations of workplace discrimination, and employees must file their discrimination claims wih the EEOC prior to suing in a civil court. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you adversely than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Whitehall plaintiff also needs to prove that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. Intent may be shown by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Whitehall Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to prove their intent to discriminate. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Whitehall lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. An experienced Pennsylvania lawyer will also guide you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.