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 person’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, including hiring, firing, promotions, harassment, training, wages, and benefits. The EEOC was established by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. No president has the unilateral power to revoke such a congressionally established act. Changes to the scope or enforcement of such laws would typically require legislative action by Congress.
Federal anti-discrimination laws represent a cornerstone of a fair and equitable workplace. These laws strive to ensure equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background or protected characteristics. They aim to create a level playing field where employment decisions are based on merit, preventing discriminatory practices that could limit an individuals potential. The history of these legal protections reflects a continuing national conversation around fairness and opportunity in the workplace.