Typically, you must first file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), before pursuing a federal lawsuit. Hiring a race discrimination lawyer can be helpful as they will have the knowledge and ability to guide you through each step of the claims process.
It is recommended by the EEOC to discuss the incident in person with a staff member. That way, they can understand exactly what happened. Your employment discrimination attorney, along with any gathered evidence is welcome, and there is a local office here in Chicago.
Once the complaint is on record, the EEOC will decide if the claim is worth moving forward. If so, prior to their investigation, the agency will ask you and your employer if you agree to go to mediation to sort out the matter and negotiate a settlement. If either party refuses, or a resolution cannot be reached, a deeper investigation will be conducted. Normally, this takes about 180 days to complete before the EEOC will either give notice of a right to sue or dismiss the claim. If given notice of a right to sue, you may proceed with a lawsuit against your employer.