What is Title VII?
Title VII is an anti-discrimination law based on the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, that prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, sex/gender, age, religion, creed, disability, Vietnam era veterans status and disabled veterans, and national origin. Title VII was designed as a broad remedial measure, rather than a punitive statute, to seek to remedy discrimination through conciliation and cooperation. Washington State RCW 49.60, is based on the same premise and also includes prohibiting discrimination based on marital status and state employees are covered by executive order for sexual orientation.
Title VII Investigations/Complaint Procedures
The Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) conducts investigations of alleged acts of discrimination and harassment based on an individual’s civil rights, that is, their race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran, or the presence of any form of sensory, mental or physical disability.
An investigation is defined as the process used to determine the facts to support or disprove a complaint or report of an alleged incident. The investigation seeks to gather and report the truth and all the facts.
If an employee believes he or she has been subjected to discrimination or harassment in violation of their civil rights, he or she may file a complaint with OEO.
To provide and maintain a workplace free from discrimination or harassment, the Department may pursue an inquiry into allegations of discrimination, harassment, or violation of policy or rules with or without authorization from the complainant.
All investigations are conducted under the guidelines provided in the OEO Policy Manual. Retaliation will not be tolerated against any complainant or person who participates in an investigation of allegations of discrimination, harassment or policy violations. The investigator will submit an independent and impartial report with respect to the established facts of the case.