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, deciding pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are done 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. Race discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their employee differently from other employees who are of a different race or nationality.

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Ridgefield employee must additionally show that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can a Ridgefield Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to show intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Ridgefield lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. 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 forms of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.