Virginia Race Discrimination Laws: Know Your Rights

Quick Answer: The Virginia Human Rights Act (VHRA) prohibits race, color, and national origin discrimination at employers with 5+ employees—broader than federal Title VII (15+). Virginia allows uncapped damages. File within 300 days.

Virginia provides strong protection against race discrimination.

Virginia Race Protections

VHRA Coverage

Protects against:

• Race discrimination
• Color discrimination
• National origin discrimination

Applies to:

• 5+ employee employers
• All employment decisions

Federal Title VII

Also provides:

• Same protections
• 15+ employees
• Works with state law

What's Prohibited

Hiring

Cannot:

• Refuse hire based on race
• Use racial criteria
• Apply different standards

Workplace Treatment

Cannot:

• Fire based on race
• Harass based on race
• Deny promotions
• Segregate workers

Harassment

Prohibited:

• Racial slurs
• Offensive comments
• Hostile environment

Filing Complaints

EEOC

Options:

• Phone: 1-800-669-4000
• Richmond: 804-771-2200
• 300-day deadline

Virginia DOLI

Office of Civil Rights:

• Phone: 804-225-2292

Common Scenarios

Scenario 1: Passed Over

Situation: Qualified minority passed over repeatedly.

Analysis: Pattern may show discrimination.

Scenario 2: Racial Harassment

Situation: Coworkers make racial comments.

Analysis: Report to HR. File complaint if ignored.

Scenario 3: Small Employer

Situation: Work for 8-person company, facing discrimination.

Analysis: VHRA covers 5+ employees. Protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Virginia have race discrimination law?

Yes. VHRA covers 5+ employee employers.

What damages available?

Uncapped compensatory and punitive damages.

How long to file?

300 days with EEOC.

Related Topics

• Virginia Workplace Discrimination
• Virginia Employment Law Hub

Take Action

If facing race discrimination:

1. Document incidents
2. Note 300-day deadline
3. Preserve evidence
4. Consult attorney

Legal Disclaimer

This article provides general information about race discrimination in Virginia and is not legal advice. For specific advice, consult a licensed Virginia employment attorney.

For official information:

• Virginia DOLI: https://www.doli.virginia.gov | 804-225-2292
• EEOC Richmond: 804-771-2200