EEOC and Tribal Employment Rights Offices Partner to Protect Tribal Members’ Workplace Rights

Background

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), in collaboration with Tribal Employment Rights Offices (TERO) directors from the Nez Perce Tribe and Lummi Nation, has launched a new public awareness campaign to educate Native Americans and Alaska Natives on their employment rights. The campaign includes a series of television and radio public service announcements (PSAs) designed to address workplace discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in a culturally relevant and accessible format. Available in multiple lengths and formats, these PSAs aim to increase awareness of federally protected rights for Tribal members and job seekers across the United States.

Understanding Employment Rights

Federal anti-discrimination laws protect most workers in the U.S. from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, and genetic information. This coverage extends to Native Americans and Alaska Natives, ensuring protections against unfair treatment, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace. Through these PSAs, the EEOC seeks to emphasize these rights and inform Tribal members of the resources available to them for addressing potential discrimination.

The EEOC and TEROs: A Longstanding Partnership

Since 1976, the EEOC has collaborated with TEROs to promote the employment rights of Tribal members on Tribal lands, particularly as it relates to Title VII's Indian preference provisions. The agency works closely with TERO directors to support Native American and Alaska Native employees, with an emphasis on respecting Tribal sovereignty and ensuring alignment with Tribal self-governance.

Settlement and New Resources

The recently launched campaign offers informative video and audio PSAs that Tribal communities can access to better understand their rights. The EEOC provides resources and support at no cost, allowing anyone to report issues without the need for a personal lawyer. For further assistance, individuals can contact the EEOC directly by phone or through its website to find the nearest office.

Key Takeaways

• The EEOC’s partnership with TEROs strengthens protections for Native American and Alaska Native workers.
• Public service announcements (PSAs) have been released in various formats to inform Tribal communities about their employment rights.
• Federal anti-discrimination laws safeguard Tribal members from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace.
• Support is available from the EEOC at no cost, ensuring accessible resources for those needing help with workplace issues.

Conclusion

The EEOC’s commitment to protecting Tribal members’ rights demonstrates a dedication to fair and inclusive workplaces across the United States. Through the new PSAs and collaboration with TERO offices, the EEOC aims to bridge awareness gaps and provide support to Native American and Alaska Native employees, ensuring they are informed, empowered, and equipped to address workplace discrimination.