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 Tennessee. According to such laws, an employer cannot use race as the basis for making decisions regarding hiring, recruitment, wage levels, or promotion opportunities.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The federal agency that is in charge of investigations of workplace discrimination is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Before taking matters to court, employees who have been discriminated against must file their claim with the EEOC. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Germantown employee must also prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. The employer's intent can often be proven by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Germantown Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Also, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to prove intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Germantown lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. A Tennessee lawyer may also help you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.