The U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code both make racial discrimination illegal in the state of Washington. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, determining pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are conducted by the agency called the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Employees who are victims of discrimination are required to file their claim with the EEOC before filing suit in a court of law. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Enumclaw plaintiff must also prove that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can an Enumclaw Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to prove their intent to discriminate. Laws of procedure vary greatly in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Enumclaw lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Washington 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.