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 determining 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 authority 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 worker differently from other workers who are of a different race or nationality.

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

How Can a Tiverton Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to establish intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Tiverton lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced Rhode Island lawyer will also guide you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other types of relief while your claim is being processed.