If you believe that you have been a victim of racial discrimination, it is important to find out if you have grounds for a lawsuit. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps that you can take to determine whether or not you have a case. We will also provide information on what to do if you decide to pursue legal action.
What is Racial Discrimination?
Racial discrimination is defined as the unequal treatment of individuals based on their racial or ethnic background. This can include discriminatory practices in housing, employment, education, and other areas of life. Racial discrimination can occur when people are treated differently because of their skin color, ancestry, national origin, or any other racial characteristic.
Racial Discrimination In The Workplace
Racial discrimination in the workplace can take many forms. It can include hiring and firing practices, pay disparities, promotions, demotions, or any other type of treatment that is based on an individual's race. Racial discrimination in the workplace can also occur when an employer creates a hostile work environment. This can happen when racial epithets are used, racial jokes are told, or offensive racial graffiti is displayed. Discrimination can even begin before you are hired. Interview questions may include inappropriate questions related to race.
Racial Discrimination At School
Racial discrimination in education can occur when students are treated differently because of their race. This can include segregated classrooms, unequal access to resources, or different discipline policies for different racial groups. If you believe that your child has been the victim of racial discrimination at school, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you determine if you have a case.
Racial Discrimination Involving Home Ownership
Racial discrimination in housing can occur when people are denied access to housing or are treated differently in the process of buying or renting a home because of their race. The department of Housing and Urban Development has developed The Fair Housing Act to fight against this. The Fair Housing Act is a set of laws that make it illegal to discriminate against someone in the process of buying or renting a home, getting a mortgage, or seeking housing assistance.
Racial Discrimination On Public Transit
Racial discrimination can also occur on public transit. This can happen when people are denied access to public transit or are treated differently because of their race. It's can be surprising that this is still an issue to this day. The Department of Transportation's Office of Civil Rights is responsible for investigating complaints of racial discrimination on public transit.
What To Do If You Believe You Have Been Discriminated Against
If you believe that you have been the victim of racial discrimination, there are a few steps that you can take to pursue legal action.
#1 Documentation
First, it is important to document everything that has happened. This can include keeping records of discriminatory comments or actions, taking pictures of offensive graffiti or signage, and saving any emails or other communications that you believe are evidence of discrimination.
#2 File Formal Complaints
Depending where the discrimination is occurring will determine what type of formal complaint documentation is available to you.
- For discrimination in the workplace, going to HR and filing a complaint is a good step. If HR is the source of discrimination, you may try and talk with another manager to see what can be done. You can also file a formal complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
- If your child is facing racial discrimination in school, you can file a complaint with the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights. Complaints must be fired within 180 days of the act of discrimination.
- When racial discrimination occurs over housing, you can file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). You should file as soon as possible as there are time limits on these type of complaints.
- And finally, for racial discrimination on public transit, you can file a complaint with the Department of Transportation.
Filing a complaint with the EEOC is typically done online, by mail, or in person. HUD complaints can be filed online
#3 Witnesses
It is also important to keep track of any witnesses who may have seen or heard the discriminatory behavior. This can be helpful if you decide to pursue legal action. A witness will help to corroborate your story and show that the discriminatory behavior was directed at you because of your race.
#4 Speak to an Attorney
Once you have gathered this documentation, you should reach out to an experienced attorney who can help you determine if you have a case. An experienced attorney will be able to review your case and help you determine if you have a racial discrimination lawsuit.
Should You File a Claim?
Filing a racial discrimination lawsuit can be a big decision. It is important to speak with an attorney to get their professional opinion on whether or not filing a lawsuit is the right decision for you. If you decide to pursue legal action, an experienced attorney will be able to guide you through the process and help you build a strong case.
Answer these questions:
- Where is the unfair treatment coming from?
- What are they doing that is unfair or different when compared to the treatment of others?
- Does the unfair treatment seem to be race-specific?
- Is this treatment affecting your ability to live and function equal to others?
Get Legal Help For Racial Discrimination
Racial discrimination can have a serious impact on your life. If you believe that you have been the victim of racial discrimination, it is important to reach out to an experienced attorney who can help you determine if you have a case. Pursuing legal action against those who have discriminated against you can help to hold them accountable and prevent them from discriminating against others in the future.
If you need help finding an attorney, contact The Cochran Firm Cleveland to get connected with experienced racial discrimination attorneys. Our attorneys are here to fight for your rights and help you get the justice that you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today by calling us at 1-800-THE-FIRM or filling out our online form.