Employment discrimination on the basis of race still happens more often than anyone wants to believe: In 2010, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission received more than 35,000 charges of race discrimination. It exacts a very high price, both from its victims and from the companies where it occurs.
An employer commits race discrimination when it makes job decisions based on race or when it adopts seemingly neutral job policies that disproportionately affect members of a particular race. Race discrimination in private employment is prohibited by two federal laws: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1866. The articles in this section cover both laws, as well as the process for bringing a race discrimination lawsuit and the remedies available to successful litigants.
Information on Race Discrimination
How Can I Prove Racial Discrimination Against My Employer?
Learn what race discrimination is — and how to prove it in court.
Race Discrimination Claims Under Section 1981
A Civil War-era law gives employees a powerful weapon in the fight against race discrimination.
What Is the Statute of Limitations For Filing a Race Discrimination Lawsuit?
Before you can file a race discrimination case, you may have to file a charge of discrimination with the EEOC.
Resources on Race Discrimination
Your Rights in the Workplace
Learn about all of your workplace rights, including the right to work free from discrimination and harassment.
The Essential Guide to Handling Workplace Harassment and Discrimination
Written for managers and employers, this handy reference explains how to recognize and handle discrimination claims.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
The website of the EEOC provides lots of free information and resources on harassment and discrimination.