San Antonio Race Discrimination Attorney

San Antonio Race Discrimination Attorney

Workplace discrimination is never acceptable, yet racial discrimination continues to be one of the most common and damaging forms of discrimination employees face. Whether it takes the form of unequal pay, harassment, denial of promotions, or wrongful termination, racial discrimination can devastate careers and emotional well-being. At The Galo Law Firm, we fight to protect the rights of employees in San Antonio who have been subjected to unfair treatment based on race, ethnicity, or color. 

Our team has decades of combined experience handling employment discrimination cases, and we are committed to holding employers accountable when they break the law. Learn more by contacting us today at (210) 764-6135.

Understanding Race Discrimination in the Workplace

Understanding Race Discrimination in the WorkplaceRace discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfavorably because of their race, color, ethnicity, or traits associated with race. Federal law, particularly Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits racial discrimination in all aspects of employment. Texas law echoes these protections, making it illegal for employers to base decisions on race when hiring, firing, promoting, compensating, or disciplining employees.

Unfortunately, discrimination is not always overt; it can also be subtle. Sometimes it appears as subtle bias, unequal opportunities, or policies that disproportionately affect workers of certain racial backgrounds. Regardless of how it is carried out, race discrimination is unlawful, and employees subjected to it have the right to seek justice.

Examples of Racial Discrimination

Racial discrimination can take many forms in the workplace. Some common examples include:

  • Hiring and Promotion Bias: Qualified candidates are being passed over for jobs or promotions because of their race.
  • Unequal Pay: Workers of different races performing the same job but receiving different compensation.
  • Harassment: Racial slurs, offensive jokes, or derogatory comments that create a hostile work environment.
  • Disciplinary Inequities: Employees of certain races being punished more harshly than others for the same conduct.
  • Wrongful Termination: Losing a job due to racial bias or after reporting race-based discrimination.

Even a single incident may be actionable if it affects your job status or creates a hostile environment. Repeated conduct often strengthens a legal claim.

Federal and Texas Protections Against Race Discrimination

Both federal and state laws in Texas protect employees from racial discrimination. Key laws include:

  • Title VII of the Civil Rights Act: Applies to most employers with 15 or more employees and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, or religion.
  • Texas Labor Code Chapter 21, which mirrors Title VII, provides additional state-level remedies for employees in San Antonio and across Texas.
  • Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1866: Prohibits racial discrimination in the making and enforcement of contracts, including employment agreements.

These laws allow employees to file claims, recover damages, and hold employers accountable. However, strict deadlines apply, often requiring claims to be filed within 180 days of the discriminatory act with the Texas Workforce Commission or within 300 days with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Proving Race Discrimination

To successfully pursue a race discrimination claim, employees must show that their employer treated them unfavorably because of their race. This can be proven through:

  • Direct Evidence: Emails, statements, or comments that openly reveal racial bias.
  • Comparative Evidence: Showing that similarly situated employees of other races were treated more favorably.
  • Statistical Evidence: Demonstrating patterns of racial disparities in hiring, promotions, or pay.
  • Retaliation Evidence: Proof that an employer punished you for reporting discrimination.

At The Galo Law Firm, our San Antonio race discrimination attorneys know how to investigate these cases, gather evidence, and build strong claims that withstand employer defenses.

Damages Available in Race Discrimination Cases

Victims of racial discrimination may be entitled to significant remedies, including:

  • Back Pay: Wages and benefits lost due to discriminatory actions.
  • Front Pay: Compensation for future lost earnings if reinstatement is not possible.
  • Compensatory Damages: For emotional distress, mental anguish, and harm to professional reputation.
  • Punitive Damages: To punish employers for particularly egregious conduct.
  • Attorney’s Fees and Costs: In many cases, employers may be required to cover your legal expenses.

Our goal is to secure not just financial compensation, but also accountability and a safer, more respectful workplace for our clients.

Taking Action Against Racial Discrimination in San Antonio

Taking Action Against Racial Discrimination in San AntonioIf you believe you have been subjected to race discrimination, it is essential to take immediate steps:

  • Document the Incidents: Keep a detailed record of discriminatory actions, including dates, times, and witnesses.
  • Report Internally: Follow company procedures by reporting the conduct to HR or a supervisor, if safe to do so.
  • File a Charge: Consider filing a charge with the EEOC or Texas Workforce Commission to preserve your rights.
  • Consult a Lawyer: Speak with an experienced San Antonio race discrimination attorney who can evaluate your case and represent your interests.

The law requires quick action; delays may cause you to lose the ability to file a claim. Having a knowledgeable San Antonio race discrimination attorney by your side ensures deadlines are met and your case is presented effectively.

Why Choose Galo Law Firm

Choosing the right attorney is critical in a race discrimination case. At The Galo Law Firm, our San Antonio race discrimination lawyers bring decades of experience, with more than 30 years of combined practice in employment law. Our record of proven results includes successfully handling cases involving discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Clients benefit from our individualized attention, as we provide one-on-one guidance and craft personalized strategies tailored to each unique situation. 

We also approach every matter with trial readiness, preparing each case as if it will go before a jury, which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations and ensures we are ready to advocate aggressively in court. We understand the emotional and financial toll discrimination takes, and we remain dedicated to seeking justice for every client we represent.

Contact Our San Antonio Race Discrimination Lawyers

No one should have to endure racial discrimination in the workplace. If your employer has treated you unfairly because of your race or ethnicity, you have legal options. At The Galo Law Firm, we are committed to fighting for equality and holding employers accountable for unlawful conduct.

Call us today at (210) 764-6135 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a San Antonio race discrimination lawyer. We are here to protect your rights and help you achieve the justice you deserve.