Racial discrimination is a terrible reality and unfortunately it is everywhere, not just in the workplace. Racism threatens the very fabric of societies all over the world. If you believe that you have been discriminated against because of your race or ethnicity, the first step you should take is to document all instances in writing, noting what happened, who was involved, the dates and times, conversations, and all other relevant information. It is very important to establish a pattern of discrimination.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits the discrimination of anyone based on their race, sex, national origin, color or religion by employers. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces these and other laws, including the Civil Rights Act of 1991, which also protects the rights of those who are discriminated against.
To file a racial discrimination lawsuit, you can file by mail or in person and by law, you must file within six months or less after the incident takes place. You will need to provide your basic contact information and that of the employer you are filing the claim against, and the dates and descriptions of the violations. By law, a person must file with the EEOC before filing a lawsuit. Check with your local EEOC office to find out if your case meets the requirements of an extension, if you need more time.
The EEOC will then investigate the claim and determine if there is sufficient evidence that the law has been violated. If so, there could be further investigations or a settlement might be offered. The charge could be dismissed if there is insufficient evidence. If the EEOC decides that there is enough proof of discrimination to file suit in federal court, they will try first to remedy the problem through mediation if possible. An employer who is found to be in violation of the anti-discrimination laws can be legally obligated to provide back pay, promotion, court costs and other related expenses. In cases where the discrimination is found to be intentional, then the employer can also be ordered to pay punitive and compensatory damages for emotional distress and mental anguish, to name just a few of the possible damages the employee may suffer
Tags: discrimination, lawsuit, lawsuits, race, racial discrimination, racism