Day 7

Hi! Finally, we have reached the last day of our course. After learning the basics of the employment laws enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, you must be loaded with knowledge about your rights by now.

Now that you know better, you can no longer be pushed around! You have grasped the main essence of each law, and if you feel that your employer violates one of them, you should take action.

First, go to your nearest EEOC office and file a charge. You also have the option to send it by mail.

(A complete list of the EEOC offices and their contact numbers can be found at this link-http://www.eeoc.gov/offices.html

EEOC can provide accommodations, such as interpreters, if necessary. You must inform them beforehand so they could make early arrangements.

If you file a complaint, make sure that you provide all the important information, including:

- your full name, address and phone number
- name, address, and phone number of the employer you are charging the discrimination complaint against. Also indicate the number of its employees.
- description of its discriminatory practices, and the period it occurred

Before a case reaches the court, complaints should be filed with the EEOC first. (except the Equal Pay Act)

Remember, there is a deadline in filing discrimination, so react immediately if you feel that you’re being unlawfully discriminated!

The condition states that “A charge must be filed with EEOC within 180 days from the date of the alleged violation, in order to protect the charging party's rights.”

If the state enforce the same anti-discrimination laws, filing could be extended up to 300 days. However, it is still suggested that all discrimination complaints be filed under 180 days to the EEOC.

Federal agency employees undergo a different process with regard to filing complaints. Initially, they have to go through counselling and comply with the agency’s policies before a complaint can be formally filed.

(For a detailed discussion on federal employees’ employment rights, visit http://www.eeoc.gov/facts/fs-fed.html)

Well, seems that you can take it from here. You’ve got the tools, and you’re ready to defend your rights! Remember, civil rights cases have changed the course of history.

For further reading, visit the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission website

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