The Law Office of Shands M. Wulbern, P.A. The Law Office of Shands M. Wulbern, P.A.
Contact Us Today
Race Discrimination

Jacksonville Race Discrimination Lawyer

Protect Your Rights Against Racial Discrimination in Florida

Race discrimination is one of the most widespread and harmful forms of discrimination that employees experience in the workplace. In 2011, charges of race discrimination comprised approximately 35% of all complaints to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Victims of racial discrimination may experience severe and long-lasting damage to their careers and emotional health.

Protect Your Rights – Contact Us Today!
If you believe you’ve been a victim of race discrimination, don’t wait. Contact us at (904) 638-9943 for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward justice.

What is Racial Discrimination?

Race discrimination may take the form of racial slurs, epithets, and intimidation tactics. In many cases, however, employers exhibit discrimination simply by favoring certain racial groups over others. Employers responsible for discrimination do not necessarily outwardly express their biased and prejudiced beliefs. Speak with Jacksonville Employment Lawyer Shands Wulbern today for assistance.

Federal and state laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of any type of race, including:

  • African-American
  • Hispanic
  • Caucasian
  • Asian
  • Arab
  • Native American

Results of Racial Discrimination

Racial discrimination may result in termination, harassment, hostile work environment, discipline, demotion, pay reduction, denied promotion, refusal to hire, and other adverse actions that materially alter terms and conditions of employment.

Even if derogatory comments or acts directed toward an employee's race are not present, employees should be mindful of being subjected to different treatment than employees of other races. Differences in circumstances between employees may be based on an employer or supervisor's attitudes regarding race, rather than legitimate non-discriminatory reasons. That's why it's important to speak with a racial discrimination attorney about your specific case.

Legal Protections Against Race Discrimination

Both federal and state laws protect employees from race discrimination in the workplace. These laws ensure that employers treat all workers fairly, regardless of race or ethnicity.

  • Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – This federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It applies to private employers, government agencies, and labor organizations with 15 or more employees.
  • Florida state laws – In addition to federal protections, Florida law prohibits race-based discrimination under the Florida Civil Rights Act (FCRA). This law applies to employers with at least 15 employees and allows victims to file claims for discrimination.
  • Filing a complaint with the EEOC – If you believe you have been discriminated against, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC investigates workplace discrimination claims and may take legal action against employers who violate the law.

Common Forms of Racial Discrimination in the Workplace

Race discrimination can take many forms, some of which may not always be obvious. Below are some of the most common ways employees face racial discrimination:

  • Hiring discrimination – Employers refuse to hire qualified candidates based on race or ethnicity.
  • Unequal pay and benefits – Employees of different races are paid less or given fewer benefits for the same work.
  • Unfair disciplinary actions – Employers unfairly discipline or fire employees of a certain race while allowing others to go unpunished for similar behavior.
  • Hostile work environment – Employees experience racial slurs, offensive jokes, exclusion from projects, or intimidation based on race.

How to Prove Race Discrimination

Proving race discrimination can be challenging, but strong evidence can help you build a case:

  • Direct evidence – This includes emails, written policies, or statements from supervisors that directly show racial bias.
  • Circumstantial evidence – If a pattern of discrimination exists (e.g., only employees of a certain race are demoted or fired), it may suggest bias.
  • Comparative evidence – Showing how employees of different races are treated differently in promotions, raises, or disciplinary actions.

If you believe you have experienced race discrimination, consult with an attorney to explore your legal options.

Examples of Workplace Retaliation

Some of the differences that may be observed include:

  • Work assignments
  • Training
  • Performance evaluations
  • Raises
  • Bonuses
  • Write-ups

It is also unlawful for an employer to retaliate against an employee for lodging a complaint regarding race discrimination. If you have experienced workplace retaliation, a racial discrimination attorney.

Other Types of Workplace Discrimination

In addition to race discrimination, employees may face other forms of unlawful discrimination, including:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Race Discrimination

Can I file a race discrimination claim if I am a contractor, not an employee?

  • Yes, independent contractors can still take legal action if they experience race discrimination. While Title VII protections mainly apply to employees, you may have other legal options under state or federal law.

How long do I have to file a race discrimination complaint?

  • Under federal law, you typically have 180 days from the date of discrimination to file with the EEOC. However, in Florida, this deadline may be extended to 300 days if a state agency also enforces anti-discrimination laws.

What should I do if my employer retaliates against me for reporting discrimination?

  • Retaliation is illegal. If you face termination, demotion, or harassment after filing a complaint, you may have an additional legal claim for workplace retaliation. Keep records of any retaliatory actions and contact an attorney.

Do I need a lawyer to file a race discrimination claim?

  • You are not required to have a lawyer to file a complaint with the EEOC. However, having an employment attorney can help strengthen your case, ensure deadlines are met, and improve your chances of obtaining compensation.

Can my employer fire me for discussing race discrimination with coworkers?

  • No. Under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), employees have the right to discuss workplace conditions, including discrimination, without fear of punishment. If your employer retaliates, they may be violating the law.

Experienced Legal Representation in Florida

At the Law Office of Shands M. Wulbern, P.A., the Jacksonville employment attorney can provide critical advice to protect your career and, if necessary, litigate against an employer who has engaged in prohibited practices. Time is of the essence because a claim for race discrimination is subject to strict time limitations to file a claim in a court of law. 

Fight Back Against Workplace Discrimination
You deserve fair treatment at work. Contact us now at (904) 638-9943 to discuss your case with an experienced employment attorney.