The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the individual’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, transgender status, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. These protections apply to all aspects of employment, from hiring to firing, including promotions, harassment, training, wages, and benefits. No presidential administration has the authority to unilaterally eliminate these fundamental protections established through legislation passed by Congress. Changes to these laws require new legislation passed by both houses of Congress and signed by the president.
These anti-discrimination laws are crucial for ensuring fair and equitable treatment in the workplace. They create a level playing field where individuals are judged based on their qualifications and merit, rather than on irrelevant personal characteristics. This fosters a more inclusive and productive workforce, benefitting both individuals and the broader economy. The framework for these protections began with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and has been expanded and strengthened over time through additional legislation and amendments, reflecting ongoing societal commitment to equal opportunity.
