Workplace diversity is an important part of today's business community. Employers are required by law to maintain a diverse workplace by not discriminating against applicants or existing employees on the basis of race, religion, age, gender or for any characteristic or class protected by the law. Equal employment opportunity makes it possible for employees to perform their job duties in a workplace free from harassment and discrimination.
Equal opportunity employment promotes equality in the workplace. Equality refers to the protection of an employees civil rights. It also provides all employees fair access to employer benefits such as insurance, disability accommodations, compensation, promotions and job responsibilities. An employer that discriminates against an employee or treats a worker unfairly is in violation of equal employment opportunity laws and is subject to federal disciplinary action.
Equal Employment Opportunity Laws
Equal employment opportunity is enforced by law. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 "makes it illegal to discriminate against someone on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex." Employers must also "reasonably accommodate" an employee's religious beliefs. Other laws, such as the "Pregnancy Discrimination Act" and the "Age Discrimination and Employment Act," protect pregnant women and employees older than 40 from being discriminated against in the workplace. It is also illegal to show prejudice against a person because he has a disability.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a government agency that enforces federal laws that prohibit discrimination. The commission is responsible for investigating harassment and discrimination allegations, and also handles complaints filed by employees. The EEOC interprets the laws it enforces and has the authority to file lawsuits against an employer on a worker's behalf. The commission provides training and educational programs to help employers prevent discrimination in the workplace.
Employers are directly responsible for promoting equal employment opportunities. They must maintain certain employment records, especially if they have been charged with discrimination. Employers are obligated to protect their employees from harassment by supervisors, clients or other workers. If an act of discrimination has been brought to an employer's attention, the company must act promptly to resolve any issues and protect the employee from additional harm. Failure to do so may result in the employer being held liable for damages if legal action becomes necessary.
Although most employees are protected by equal employment opportunity laws, they are also responsible for ensuring their own safety in the workplace. If an employee feels they have been illegally discriminated against or harassed, the person must bring the incident to the attention of the employer for a possible remedy to the situation. If an employer has no knowledge of the incident it is not possible for the business to resolve matters.
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