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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

The Whatcom County plaintiff must additionally be able to show that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can a Whatcom County Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to establish their intent to discriminate. Laws of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Whatcom County lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. A Washington lawyer may also assist you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.