Des Moines Race Discrimination Lawyers
Seeking Justice for Employees in Iowa & Minnesota
Race discrimination in the workplace takes many forms, affecting employees’ opportunities, treatment, and overall well-being. Iowa, Minnesota, and federal laws prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race.
However, the concept of employment discrimination is often misunderstood. This means that many employees do not recognize discrimination when it occurs and, therefore, fail to take steps to protect their rights to equal employment.
At Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C., our competent legal team stands up for the rights of all employees to work in a safe, respectful, and fair environment. We devote a significant portion of our practice to seeking justice for employees unlawfully discriminated against in the workplace. With 70+ years of collective experience, our legal team fully understands the laws, regulations, and proceedings associated with representing our clients.
Talk to a Des Moines race discrimination attorney at Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C. about your case. Call (515) 497-9409 or reach us online to request a free initial consultation.
Defending Your Dignity Bold Representation for Bold Change
See What Sets Us Apart
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Equity for All
Fighting for your rights, we work towards the fundamental equality of every individual.
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Accountability-Focused
We work to ensure organizations are responsible for creating fair and just workplaces.
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Employee Advocates
We empower our clients to have their voices heard and their rights protected.
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Fostering Inclusion
At our core, we drive positive change through education and implicit bias training.
What Is Race Discrimination in the Workplace?
The complex explanation of workplace race discrimination is that most people are denied equal employment opportunities because of negative perceptions or biases tied to race.
Examples of racial bias in employment decisions can include:
- A hiring manager selects a white applicant over you for a job or promotion based on his desire to work with someone who looks like him or because of an aversion or negative view tied to your race.
- A manager or supervisor allows negative views of your race to justify paying you less or giving you fewer hours than white coworkers.
- Harassment tied to race is a form of discrimination. While many employers may no longer allow the use of racial slurs, the environment may still be stained with opposing racial views that can lead to a claim of racial harassment.
- An employer may use testing or other so-called “objective” measures of performance that result in the exclusion of certain races.
Subtle forms of race discrimination, often referred to as microaggressions, can be more complex to identify but are just as damaging. These include behaviors like perpetuating stereotypes about certain racial groups, consistently excluding employees of color from meetings or key projects, or giving biased performance reviews rooted in unconscious prejudice. Such subtle actions might not seem significant but can create a toxic environment over time.
The list of possible racial discrimination scenarios is endless, but when this type of discrimination filter is in place, it can and will affect your employment opportunities. Explicit and subtle discrimination harms not just individuals but the entire organization. It can cause reduced employee morale, high turnover, and a lack of diversity in leadership.
Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C.: Fighting for Justice in the Workplace
Our firm pursues justice and fair treatment for clients who have faced workplace race discrimination. Tackling such cases requires a strategic and skilled approach.
We can:
- Conduct a thorough case review: We begin by understanding the full scope of your situation. This includes documenting instances of discrimination, reviewing workplace policies, and assessing how the laws apply to your case.
- Gather crucial evidence: Building a solid case requires clear and compelling evidence. We work with you to collect critical documentation, including emails, performance reviews, HR records, and witness statements. Evidence of differential treatment, such as disparities in pay, promotions, or racially motivated remarks, helps substantiate claims.
- Educate you on your rights: Discrimination cases can be daunting, but understanding your rights is empowering. We prioritize explaining protections under the law and fully informing you about the legal recourse available, whether through administrative agencies like the EEOC or litigation.
- Negotiate settlements: A settlement can resolve issues without requiring lengthy court proceedings. We are skilled negotiators working to secure fair compensation, including back pay or damages for emotional distress and changes in company policies to prevent future discrimination.
- Pursue litigation if necessary: We are prepared to represent you in court if a settlement is impossible. We craft compelling legal strategies to hold employers accountable for their actions. From filing a solid complaint to arguing your case before a judge or jury, we aggressively pursue favorable outcomes.
We understand the emotional toll workplace race discrimination can take. Clients need not only legal guidance but also empathy and validation. Our team listens carefully, treats you respectfully, and helps alleviate the stress and anxiety often accompanying these cases. You are not alone in this fight.
Request a free initial consultation with a Des Moines race discrimination attorney by contacting us at (515) 497-9409 today.
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"Patience & Professionalism"
I knew after the first meeting that Jill Zwagerman was the best fit for my case. Her patience, professionalism, and experience guided me through a process that produced a better outcome than I could imagine.- Terry W. -
"Fighting the Good Fight"
Tom is passionate about exposing biases and helping women fight the good fight. Without his guidance, I have no doubt I would not be sitting in where I am now. He made sure that I was prepared.- Tina S.