Race Discrimination Attorneys in Alabama and Georgia
Race Discrimination
If you’ve been denied a job, passed over for a promotion, harassed, or treated unfairly because of your race or skin color, you may have experienced illegal race discrimination. Under both federal and state law, you have the right to work in an environment that is fair, respectful, and free of racial bias.
What Does Race Discrimination Look Like at Work?
Race discrimination can be overt—or subtle. It might show up in hiring practices, pay gaps, unfair discipline, or daily workplace comments that create a hostile environment.
Federal law protects employees from discrimination based on race, color, ancestry, or cultural characteristics such as hair texture, skin tone, and facial features. If you've been mistreated or denied opportunities because of any of these, you may have a case.
Common Forms of Race and Color Discrimination
Discriminatory Hiring & Recruitment
- Posting jobs where only certain racial groups are likely to see them
- Ignoring qualified applicants based on names, accents, or appearances
- Applying inconsistent or irrelevant education or background requirements
Unequal Pay and Promotion
- Offering lower salaries or benefits to employees of color
- Consistently promoting white employees over equally qualified BIPOC employees
Harassment & Hostile Work Environments
- Racial slurs, offensive jokes, or derogatory comments
- Displaying offensive symbols or materials
- Allowing racial harassment to persist unchecked
Segregation or Classification Based on Race
- Assigning roles or job duties based on customer preferences or race
- Keeping employees of a certain race away from leadership or client-facing positions
Wrongful Termination or Retaliation
- Firing an employee for reporting racism or supporting a coworker who did
- Laying off employees of a certain race under the guise of “restructuring”
Your Rights Under Federal and State Law
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act
Federal law prohibits race and color discrimination in all employment decisions—including hiring, firing, pay, promotion, job assignments, and harassment. It applies to employers with 15 or more employees.
Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1866
This federal law allows employees to file race discrimination lawsuits directly, without going through the EEOC first. It applies to all employers, regardless of size.
State Protections in Alabama and Georgia
While federal protections are primary, both Alabama and Georgia race discrimination attorneys can guide you through filing under Title VII, Section 1981, or state-specific statutes when applicable.
Disparate Treatment vs. Disparate Impact
Disparate Treatment
Occurs when you’re treated differently because of your race—for example, being denied a job or promotion that was given to a less-qualified person of another race.
Disparate Impact
Occurs when a policy looks neutral but disproportionately harms one racial group—like blanket criminal background checks, height requirements, or English-only rules that aren’t necessary for the job.
How to File a Race Discrimination Claim
To begin, most employees must file a Charge of Discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 180 days of the discriminatory act. The EEOC may investigate, propose mediation, or issue a “right to sue” letter—which allows you to take your claim to court.
The Workers’ Firm can help you:
- Write and file your EEOC Charge
- Navigate the investigation or mediation process
- Litigate your case in state or federal court if needed
In some cases, we may pursue claims directly under Section 1981—without EEOC involvement.
Why Choose The Workers’ Firm
At The Workers’ Firm, we have a long track record of holding employers accountable for race-based discrimination in Alabama and Georgia. We understand how racism can affect every part of your career and your well-being. That’s why we approach every case with compassion, discretion, and a deep commitment to justice.
Whether the discrimination was blatant or buried in bias, our attorneys are prepared to fight for your right to fair treatment and equal opportunity.
Talk to an Alabama or Georgia
Race Discrimination Attorney Today
If you’ve been targeted, overlooked, or harassed at work because of your race, don’t stay silent. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and take action. Contact The Workers’ Firm today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an experienced race discrimination attorney in Alabama or Georgia.
