Understanding Executive Order 11246 and the Equal Employment Opportunity Act: Key Insights

The Equal Employment Opportunity Act (EEOA) and Executive Order 11246 are foundational measures designed to prevent workplace discrimination in the United States. These initiatives ensure that employees are treated fairly, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Table of Contents

Historical Context: Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the 1965 Equal Employment Opportunity Act

The Civil Rights Act of 1964, particularly Title VII, prohibits employers from discriminating based on protected characteristics. Building on this foundation, the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1965 expanded the enforcement powers of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), enabling it to investigate and address discriminatory practices in workplaces across the country.

Executive Order 11246: Expanding Workplace Protections

President Lyndon B. Johnson issued Executive Order 11246 in 1965 to promote affirmative action policies among federal contractors and subcontractors. This order requires these employers to create plans to ensure non-discriminatory hiring practices and to actively promote equal opportunities.

Did President Trump Revoke the Equal Employment Opportunity Act?

There has been confusion regarding whether former President Donald Trump revoked the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1965 or Executive Order 11246. To clarify, he did not revoke either. However, Trump’s administration did implement policies that some viewed as contrary to the principles of workplace equality. For instance, a 2020 executive order restricted federal contractors from conducting diversity training that included concepts related to systemic racism or critical race theory. Critics argued this move undermined progress toward workplace equity.

Although this did not directly repeal the 1965 Equal Employment Opportunity Act or Executive Order 11246, it was perceived by many as a step back. President Joe Biden later rescinded this executive order upon taking office in 2021.

The Role of U.S. Presidents in Workplace Equality

Each U.S. president, from Lyndon B. Johnson to Joe Biden, has played a significant role in shaping workplace equality. President Biden has emphasized restoring and strengthening diversity initiatives to align with the ideals established by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related legislation.

Conclusion

The Equal Employment Opportunity Act and Executive Order 11246 remain essential for protecting workplace fairness and equality. While President Trump did not revoke these key provisions, his policies sparked important discussions about the state of workplace diversity and inclusion. The efforts of successive U.S. presidents continue to shape the nation’s approach to workplace equity, ensuring that the goals of the Civil Rights Movement endure in the modern era.