Definition
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency established under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to enforce laws prohibiting employment discrimination. Its primary responsibility is to investigate charges of discrimination against employers covered by federal statutes, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). The EEOC also educates employers and employees about their rights and responsibilities under nondiscrimination laws.
Examples
Example 1: Hiring Process
An employer posts a job advertisement explicitly excluding applicants over the age of 40. A potential candidate files a complaint with the EEOC, and the agency investigates the employer for age discrimination under the ADEA.
Example 2: Workplace Discrimination
An employee reports being passed over for promotions in favor of equally qualified male colleagues. The EEOC investigates the complaint and determines that the employer is in violation of Title VII due to gender discrimination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the EEOC do?
The EEOC enforces federal laws that prohibit employment discrimination. It investigates complaints, mediates disputes, and has the authority to file lawsuits against employers on behalf of workers.
Who does the EEOC cover?
The EEOC covers all private employers with at least 15 employees (20 employees in cases of age discrimination), as well as federal, state, and local governments, employment agencies, and labor unions.
How do I file a complaint with the EEOC?
Employees or job applicants who believe they have been discriminated against can file a charge of discrimination at an EEOC field office. This can be done in person, by mail, or through an online portal on the EEOC’s website.
What are the potential outcomes of an EEOC investigation?
Possible outcomes include the EEOC dismissing the charge, reaching a settlement between parties, or the EEOC finding reasonable cause to believe discrimination occurred, which may lead to legal action.
How long do I have to file a complaint?
Employees generally have 180 days from the day the discrimination took place to file a charge with the EEOC. This time period may be extended to 300 days if the charge is also covered by a state or local antidiscrimination law.
Related Terms
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
This landmark law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
This law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs.
Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)
This law protects employees 40 years of age and older from discrimination based on age in hiring, promotion, discharge, and other aspects of employment.
Online Resources
- EEOC Official Website - The central hub for filing complaints, accessing resources, and learning about rights and responsibilities.
- DOJ Civil Rights Division - Offers additional information and support related to civil rights legislation.
- ADA National Network - focuses on information, guidance, and training on the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Eeo Law And Personnel Practices” by Arthur Gutman
- “Employment Discrimination Law and Practice” by Harold S. Lewis Jr.
- “Understanding and Preventing Workplace Discrimination” by M. Neil Browne and Nancy K. Kubasek
Fundamentals of Equal Employment Opportunity: Employment Law Basics Quiz
Thank you for exploring the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and mastering our challenging sample exam questions. Keep striving for excellence in understanding employment law and nondiscrimination practices!
