Glossary > Employment Law > Employment Discrimination > General

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency responsible for enforcing laws that protect individuals from employment discrimination based on factors such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.

Example #1

The EEOC investigates complaints of race discrimination in hiring practices to ensure fair opportunities for all applicants.

Example #2

If an employee faces harassment at work due to their gender, they can file a complaint with the EEOC for investigation and resolution.

Misuse

Misusing the EEOC's guidelines may involve discriminating against potential employees based on their age by setting an arbitrary maximum age for job applicants. This misuse is detrimental as it prevents qualified individuals from securing employment based solely on their age, which is unfair and unlawful.

Benefits

The EEOC ensures that all individuals have an equal opportunity to participate in the workplace without facing discrimination. For instance, if an employee with a disability is qualified to perform a job with reasonable accommodations, the EEOC ensures that the employer provides those accommodations, allowing the employee to work effectively.

Conclusion

The EEOC plays a vital role in protecting employees from unfair treatment and discrimination in the workplace. By enforcing anti-discrimination laws, the EEOC fosters a more inclusive and equitable work environment for all individuals.