Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers stands up for workers in Seattle when they’re facing discrimination. You never expect that type of treatment, but when you experience it because of things like your race, it’s demoralizing. Going to work should be about providing for your family, not facing stress and unfair treatment. When it happens, though, we can help you explore your options. Set up a free consultation today to learn more.
Should I Get a Lawyer?
Understanding that you have legal options for racial discrimination at your job in Seattle is one thing, but it can feel a lot different in practice. What’s more, it can be hard to know for certain that you’re experiencing racial discrimination–after all, your boss or employer are probably not going to outright admit it. But that doesn’t mean it won’t happen, and if it does, you might be wondering if you should get a lawyer
It’s not technically required, but having our team on your side can really help you. Here’s how:
- We’ll explain your rights and options under the law.
- We’ll assist you with getting evidence and information for your claim.
- We’ll use our experience and resources to put a value on your claim.
- We’ll talk with your employer or their representatives directly so you don’t have to.
- We’ll make things easier.
Facing any type of discrimination at work is something no employee deserves, especially if it’s based on something as fundamental as race. But it happens, and when it does, having our team on your side can make the situation a little more controllable.
How Can You Tell If Racial Discrimination Is Happening in Your Workplace?
Racial discrimination–like a lot of other forms–ususally hides behind vague excuses or “just the way things are.” But when patterns start to add up, it becomes harder to ignore. But there are certain things that happen that are stone cold examples that you’re being discriminated against because of your race:
- You’re consistently passed over for promotions or raises
- You get disciplined more harshly than others for the same mistakes
- Supervisors or coworkers make racial jokes or inappropriate comments
- You’re excluded from meetings, trainings, or team discussions
- You feel isolated or targeted after bringing up concerns
- Company policies seem to affect workers of color more than others
Whether the behavior is intentional or unconscious, the result is the same: a hostile, unfair workplace that can leave you feeling powerless. But you’re not–both state and federal law protects you.
What Laws Protect You From Racial Discrimination at Work in Seattle?
Washington law makes it illegal for employers to treat workers unfairly based on their race, color, national origin, or ancestry. These protections are part of the Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD). Whether you work for the city, a tech company in South Lake Union, or a restaurant in Capitol Hill, the WLAD protects you in areas like:
- Hiring and firing
- Promotions and demotions
- Work assignments
- Pay and benefits
- Harassment and retaliation
Federal laws also apply—like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which offers similar protections. Together, these laws give you the right to a workplace free from racial discrimination.
With that said, it’s okay if you’re not sure whether all of this applies yet. These things are often more complicated than they look at first. But if something doesn’t feel right, trust that instinct—it can help you figure out what to do next.
What Are My Options For Filing a Claim If I’m Experiencing Racial Discrimination at Work?
Being mistreated because of your race at work isn’t just wrong—it’s something the law in Washington takes seriously. If you’ve been pushed out, silenced, harassed, or retaliated against, you don’t just have to live with it–you can take action by:
- Filing a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) – This state agency looks into violations of the Washington Law Against Discrimination. You can file a complaint if you’ve been harassed, passed over unfairly, or punished for speaking up. They’ll investigate, and sometimes they’ll offer mediation or refer the case for legal follow-up. You only have six months from the last incident to file.
- Filing a federal complaint with the EEOC – If you want to go the federal route, you can file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. This kicks off a federal investigation, and depending on the outcome, they may help resolve the situation or give you a “right to sue” letter so you can take your case to court. You usually have up to 300 days to file a charge if you’re in Seattle.
- Civil lawsuit – Sometimes, filing a lawsuit is the clearest way forward—especially if other options haven’t led anywhere. A lawsuit can help you recover:
- Wages or benefits you lost
- Damages for emotional distress and harm to your reputation
- Punitive damages (in serious cases)
- Possible policy changes at your workplace
It’s not just about the money. Sometimes, it’s about setting things right—making sure your employer knows this behavior isn’t going unnoticed, and helping protect others from going through the same thing.
What Kinds of Evidence Can Help Support a Racial Discrimination Claim?
You don’t need a perfect case or a dramatic moment caught on camera when there’s racial discrimination happening to you. Most successful claims are built on smaller pieces of evidence that show a pattern. This usually includes things like:
- Emails or messages with inappropriate comments or biased decisions
- HR reports or complaints you’ve filed
- Performance evaluations that suddenly dropped after you spoke up
- Records showing you’re being treated differently than coworkers
- Company policies or memos that have a disparate impact
- Statements or support from coworkers who witnessed the behavior
Racial discrimination at work can take a toll—not just on your job, but on your confidence, your health, and your future. If something about the way you’re being treated doesn’t feel right, it’s worth having a conversation.
Contact Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers for Support With Racial Discrimination Claims in Seattle
At Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers, we help people across Seattle who just want to be respected for what they bring to the table at their job. When you or someone else is facing racial discrimination, it shows up in real ways that impact everyone. We can help you figure out what to do next and hold your employer accountable. Set up a free consultation today to get started.
