What is the EEOC and Do I Need Labor & Employment Representation?
If you’re looking into an employment law issue, you may have heard of the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), and the MCCR (Maryland Commission on Civil Rights). They have similar goals, but apply differently, and differ in terms of their proceedings. Here, we explore what makes them unique, and the impact they have on employees.
What is the EEOC?
EEOC stands for “Equal Employment Opportunity Commission”. The EEOC is an agency that enforces federal laws to protect employees and job applications from harassment and discrimination at work.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission was founded on the 2nd July, 1965, with the goal of enforcing Title VII. Subsequently, in the 1990, the EEOC also enforced the Americans With Disabilities Act for individuals with disabilities. All companies with 15 or more employees must adhere to the rules of the EEOC. There are many examples of how this fits into everyday life at work – from preventing discrimination in the hiring process, to ensuring equal training opportunities.
The EEOC protects against discrimination based on:
- Race, color, and national origin
- Religion
- Sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, and pregnancy)
- Age (40+ years)
- Disability
- Genetic information
What is the MCCR?
MCCR stands for Maryland Commission on Civil Rights. The MCCR explains its goal as follows:
It is the mission of the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights to ensure opportunity for all through the enforcement of Maryland’s laws against discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and state contracts... Our vision is to have a State that is free from any trace of unlawful discrimination.
In terms of employment, the MCCR has a similar goal to the EEOC but on a state level; the MCCR protects workers in Maryland from harassment, retaliation, discrimination, and more.
When Do I Need a Labor and Employment Attorney?
Both the EEOC and MCCR have their own individual and complex processes. If you are getting ready to engage with either authority, it is wise to thoroughly understand the filing process and needs for EEOC and MCCR claims.
Representation by a reputable labor and employment attorney is the best way to navigate the process.
Choose Strategic and Aggressive Representation that Protects Your Rights
The labor and employment attorneys at Joseph, Greenwald & Laake are here to represent you. We believe in a fairer future, with teams of experts working on job discrimination cases like yours.
From filing the charge of discrimination to preparing you for mediation and representing you, we can give your case the best possible chance of success.
Contact Joseph, Greenwald & Laake today, for a free consultation with our labor and employment law experts.