What is racial discrimination?

Racial discrimination involves treating someone unfavorably because of that person’s race, skin color complexion, or because of personal characteristics associated with race (such as hair texture, skin color or facial features). Race discrimination is also found when a person is treated unfairly merely because they are married to someone of a certain race.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act makes it illegal to discriminate against someone due to their race or color. Whether you are an employee or a job applicant, an employer is prohibited from discriminating in all areas of employment, including hiring, firing, compensation, job assignments, promotions, demotions, layoffs, training, and benefits.

Harassment based on race is likewise illegal under Title VII. Harassment can include racial slurs, offensive or derogatory remarks about a person’s race or color or the display of racially offensive symbols. While minor teasing or offhand comments may not be considered harassment, frequent or severe acts that create a hostile work environment is illegal.