EEOC Complaints
UNDERSTANDING EEOC
Complaints
BY YVETTE BRO , VICE PRESIDENT / GRIEVANCE CHAIR , PLEA
7794
There are times when members reach out to PLEA because they are being treated unfairly by supervisors or even other officers . Often , these officers feel they are working in a hostile work environment and want to file an EEOC complaint . This article aims to help our members understand what an EEOC complaint covers and how to file one .
The City of Phoenix has an Equal Employment Opportunity ( EEO ) department that deals solely with covered EEO complaints related to your employment . You can also file with the state through the Civil Rights Division of the Arizona Attorney General ’ s office . On a federal level , the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ( EEOC ) is responsible for enforcing laws that prohibit workplace discrimination and ensuring that everyone is treated fairly .
Understanding EEOC complaints is important for members that may encounter discrimination . Knowing your rights under EEOC guidelines is essential when you are faced with
a hostile working environment or feel you are being treated differently due to belonging to a protected category .
WHAT IS AN EEOC COMPLAINT ?
An EEOC complaint , also known as a charge of discrimination , is a formal allegation that an employer has engaged in unlawful discriminatory practices .
CATEGORIES COVERED BY EEOC COMPLAINTS
To qualify for an EEOC complaint , the alleged discrimination must fall under specific protected categories . The EEOC protects employees from various forms of discrimination to ensure a fair and equitable workplace .
The categories covered by EEOC complaints include the following :
• Race / Color : Discrimination based on race or skin color , including prejudicial treatment due to an individual ’ s racial or ethnic background .
• Religion : Discrimination based on religious beliefs or practices , encompassing biases against individuals for their faith , worship practices , or religious attire .
• Sex : Includes discrimination based on gender , sexual orientation , pregnancy , and gender identity . This covers unfair treatment due to gender stereotypes , pregnancy-related conditions , or transitioning status .
• National Origin : Discrimination based on a person ’ s birthplace , ethnicity , or accent . This includes unfair treatment due to cultural customs , language proficiency , or country of origin .
• Age : This law specifically protects individuals 40 years of age or older from age-based discrimination . It addresses issues such as bias against older workers in hiring , promotions , or job assignments .
• Disability : Discrimination against individuals with physical or mental disabilities , including the denial of reasonable accommodations needed to perform their job functions .
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