The U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code both make racial discrimination illegal in the state of Wisconsin. 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 Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency in charge of investigating workplace discrimination, and employees discriminated against must file a claim with the EEOC before taking the matter to 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 Cottage Grove plaintiff additionally needs to show that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. This intent is most often proven by showing that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can a Cottage Grove 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. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and Cottage Grove attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A Wisconsin 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.