What is the difference between Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity?
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) is defined by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and amended in 1991 as one of the means by which people can reach social equality in America. It is based on the premise that people who are given equal access to job opportunities will be able to achieve economic and social standing in civic life. EEO promotes equal access and non-discrimination in all employment practices (e.g., hiring, promotion, training, compensation, and reduction in force actions) and is required of all employers whether private or public. Affirmative Action is directed at federal contractors (as a condition for contract award) who have both the means and opportunity to help historically marginalized groups to attain gainful employment at federal contractor sites. It is a mandated managerial plan to realize diversity within the work force and includes “good faith, proactive activities like outreach, special programming, goal setting, recruitment and retention. It is important to note t
