What Does
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Mean?
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is U.S. federal agency responsible for enforcing laws surrounding discrimination against employees and job applicants. These laws cover a number of activities, such as hiring practices, the distribution of salaries and promotions, workplace harassment, and retaliation against workers for reporting unfair treatment.
The EEOC is concerned with discrimination of various types, including (but not limited to):
- Race
- Gender
- Country of origin
- Age
- Disability
- Pregnancy
- Religion
Safeopedia Explains Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission was established in 1965 in order to enforce the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The EEOC is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with field offices throughout the United States.
What the EEOC Does
The EEOC has the legal authority to investigate any charges of discrimination brought against an employer. They are then tasked with assessing the allegations, determining whether they are credible, and either settle the case or file a lawsuit on behalf of the individual whose rights have been infringed upon.
The EEOC also has educational and technical assistance programs designed to prevent discrimination at work. These provide guidance to employers to ensure that they remain compliant with relevant laws and give advice on creating a more equitable workplace.
The EEOC reported that, in the fiscal year 2020, it had secured a total of $535.4 million in total compensation for workers who had been subject to work place discrimination.