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 Rhode Island. 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 discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their employee differently from other employees who are of a different race or nationality.
The Cranston plaintiff must also be able to show 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 shown by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.
How Can a Cranston Lawyer Help with My Claim?
In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to establish intent. Laws of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Cranston lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. Also, a Rhode Island 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.