EEOC Enforcement Activities

The EEOC coordinates all federal equal employment opportunity regulations, practices, and policies. EEOC headquartetrs are in Washington D.C. and have 50 field offices nationwide. The Commission interprets employment discrimination laws, monitors the federal sector employment discrimination program, provides funding and support to state and local Fair Employment Practices Agencies (FEPAs), and sponsors outreach and technical assistance programs. Any individual who believes he or she has been discriminated against in employment may file an administrative charge with the EEOC. After investigating, the EEOC determines if there is "reasonable cause" to believe discrimination has occurred. If "reasonable cause" is found, the EEOC attempts to conciliate the charge by reaching a voluntary resolution between the charging party and the respondent. If conciliation is not successful, the Commission may bring suit in federal court. Also, the EEOC may also issue a Right-to-Sue-Notice to the charging party, allowing the charging party to file an individual action in court without the Agency's involvement.