Racial harassment is race-specific verbal or physical abuse. I have represented many individuals of color throughout the United States who have been subjected to racial epithets as well as symbols of racial oppression, such as nooses and Klu Klux Klan paraphernalia, in the work place and at school.

Racial harassment in the workplace is prohibited by several federal laws including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1866. Racial harassment in primary and secondary schools is prohibited by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

In the employment context, Section 1981 provides greater protection to victims of racial harassment and discrimination than Title VII. Unlike Title VII, Section 1981 applies to all employers, regardless of size, and individual supervisors may be liable if they personally engaged in the harassment or discrimination. In addition, an individual may file a Section 1981 lawsuit directly in federal court without having to first file a complaint with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or other government agency.

If you are being subjected to harassment because of your race, you should consult with an experienced employment lawyer immediately. An experienced attorney can help you preserve evidence, navigate internal complaint procedures established by the employer, and avoid missed court filing deadlines set by Statutes of Limitations.