Administration

Any employee, former employee, or job applicant who believes he or she has been discriminated against because of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual harassment), religion, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, arrest/court record, sexual orientation, breast feeding and National Guard participation.

What is discrimination?

Discrimination is an employment practice in which someone is treated unfairly or harassed due to one of the categories or bases mentioned in the preceding paragraph.

What is the procedure for filing an EEO complaint?

The HDOT has both internal and formal complaint procedures or processes.  Please go to the Internal Complaint Process and the Formal Complaint Process links.

Is the complaint process confidential?

Yes, but to the extent the law allows.  Please note that it is difficult to inquire about problems or conduct an investigation without releasing information; however, any inquiries about the particulars of a case, including the names of individuals involved, are only on a need to know basis.

What action can management take against an employee who files an EEO complaint?

Section 704a of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, as amended, prohibits an employer from retaliating against an employee for an EEO complaint.

Must an employee use his/her leave to attend complaint-related meetings?

No.  An employee involved in the complaint process (as the aggrieved, a representative, or witness) is entitled to a reasonable amount of official time.  However, this time must be requested before the meeting or appointment.

Who benefits from an EEO/Affirmative Action Program?

Employees benefit by working in an environment free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.  Applicants and employees have equal access to jobs, training and other development opportunities.  Fair processes exist to deal with work-related issues, complaints and grievances.  The HDOT benefits by having cooperative workplace relations, reduced workplace conflict, increased employee job satisfaction and morale, increased productivity, and the ability to meet the goals of the department.  The public benefits from department services that are responsive to the needs of a diverse community.