Glossary /
 

EOE Statement (also known as EEO Statement)

by | Oct 30, 2024

Short for Equal Opportunity Employer statement, an EOE statement (also known as Equal Employment Opportunity statement, or EEO statement) is an employer’s declaration, often included in job postings, company policies, or HR communications, which affirms the employer’s commitment to not discriminate against employees or job applicants based on factors such as race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Key Components

An EOE statement (or EEO statement) typically includes several key components. While the specific wording may vary, depending on regional legal requirements and company policies, it usually includes:

  1. Affirmative Statement: The statement begins with a clear affirmation that the employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Common phrases include:
    • “We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.”
    • “ABC Company is an equal opportunity employer.”
  2. Non-Discrimination Policy: This part explicitly states that the employer does not discriminate against employees or job applicants based on specific protected categories. These categories typically include:
    • Race
    • Color
    • Religion
    • Sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation)
    • National origin
    • Age
    • Disability
    • Genetic information
    • Veteran status
  3. Example: “We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.”
  4. Inclusive Language: The statement may use inclusive language to encompass all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.
  5. Compliance with Laws: Often, the statement will mention compliance with applicable laws and regulations related to equal employment opportunity.
  6. Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: Some statements include a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.
  7. Contact Information for Reporting Discrimination: In some cases, the statement may provide information on how employees or applicants can report discrimination or harassment related to employment practices.

EOE Statement Example

Here’s an example of how an EOE statement might be structured:

“ABC Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our policy of equal employment opportunity applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued and respected.”

The specific wording and details may vary depending on the organization’s policies and state and local legal requirements.