Department of Labor Walks the Walk

Posted by marykeating on May 4, 2011 under Discrimination in employment | Be the First to Comment

Last week the Department of Labor announced its internal emphasis on preventing discrimination.  In addition to the categories covered by the federal anti-discrimination law, the department also is prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, including gender identity and pregnancy, and status as a parent.

In adding status as a parent and sexual orientation, the Department exceeds the minimum requirements of Title VII and other anti-discrimination laws applicable to the federal government.  The Secretary also stated her intention to make the Department of Labor a “model workplace,  free from unlawful discrimination and harassment, which fosters a work environment that fully utilizes the capabilities of every employee.”  While its employees monitor other workplaces for violations, it is fitting that the department from the top down commits to a professional and non-discriminatory workplace.