Legal Question in Discrimination Law in Virginia

Workplace racial discrimnation

I work for a local government for 14 years. I have been a manager for 12 of the 14 years.

My supervisor has given me above competent ratings up until this year. It was like he was campaigning for six months to get rid of me but would not tell me why. I tried working it out and he cut off all communication. He has the ear of the HR Mgr and the CEO. They patronize me without listening to me and nothing changes. I was surprised one day when I came to work with a demotion letter. HUGE demotion. I am at a position lower than the people I once supervised. In the new job I have no authority at all yet still have some of the same work. My former supervisor created a new position to lead the division at a much higher salary grade than I was at. A couple of yrs ago a division head of a different area was removed as the head of an entire dept. He was not demoted in title or pay grade.

I was the only black manager in the entire organization. Now all white faces sit at the executive table. I am humiliated and the weak reasons I have been given by HR are not true. I have anxiety about going to work each day. The writing is on the wall that I need to leave this place. I just want to know should I pursue a lawsuit.


Asked on 10/03/07, 9:55 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Emmett Robinson Law Office of E. F. Robinson, PLLC

Re: Workplace racial discrimnation

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

Although I can't say that you need to pursue a lawsuit, you should at a minimum engage an attorney to review your case and make recommendations. My firm handles such cases and with over 25 years experience fighting discrimination is in a unique position to render such recommendations. We would be pleased to give you a free consultation on this issue.

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Answered on 10/03/07, 10:06 am
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Workplace racial discrimnation

If you believe that you are a victim of racial discrimination and have suffered detriment as a result, you may wish to first file a grievance regarding your demotion with the local government agency and, if that produces no satisfactory results, then

you could file file a formal complaint with the EEOC and pursue possible federal court action after that in the event that you are issued a so-called right to sue letter.

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Answered on 10/03/07, 10:08 am


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