If you’ve experienced discrimination or harassment at work, you have the right to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), but it can be daunting to know where to start. One of the first steps is to write a formal complaint letter. In this article, we’ll provide examples of EEOC complaint letters and tips for writing your own.
Examples of EEOC Complaint Letters
Harassment from a Supervisor
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that your actions towards me in the workplace have made me feel uncomfortable and harassed. On multiple occasions, you have made inappropriate comments about my appearance and have touched me in ways that are not appropriate in a professional setting. This behavior has continued despite my requests for you to stop.
This conduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on sex. I request that you immediately stop this behavior and take corrective action to ensure that it does not continue in the future. If this behavior does not stop, I will be forced to take further legal action.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Age Discrimination
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I believe I have been discriminated against on the basis of my age. Despite being qualified for the promotion, I was passed over for a younger, less experienced candidate. Additionally, I have been subject to age-based comments and jokes in the workplace.
This treatment violates the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), which prohibits employment discrimination against individuals who are 40 years of age or older. I request that you take corrective action to rectify this situation and prevent further discrimination from occurring.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Retaliation for Reporting Discrimination
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to complain about the retaliation I experienced after reporting discrimination in the workplace. Despite being assured that I would not face any negative consequences for reporting this behavior, I have been subject to negative performance evaluations, increased scrutiny, and a hostile work environment.
This retaliation violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits retaliation against individuals who report discrimination. I request that you take corrective action to rectify this situation and prevent retaliation from occurring in the future.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Disability Discrimination
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I believe I have been discriminated against on the basis of my disability. Despite being fully capable of performing my job duties with reasonable accommodations, I have been denied opportunities for advancement and have been subjected to derogatory comments about my disability.
This treatment violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. I request that you take corrective action to rectify this situation and prevent further discrimination from occurring.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Race Discrimination
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I believe I have been discriminated against on the basis of my race. Despite being qualified for the position, I was passed over for a less qualified candidate who was of a different race. Additionally, I have been subject to racial slurs and derogatory comments in the workplace.
This treatment violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race. I request that you take corrective action to rectify this situation and prevent further discrimination from occurring.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sexual Harassment from a Coworker
Dear [HR Representative’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I have been subject to sexual harassment by a coworker. This behavior includes unwanted sexual advances, comments about my appearance, and physical touching that is not appropriate in a professional setting. Despite my requests for this behavior to stop, it has continued.
This conduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on sex. I request that you immediately investigate this situation and take corrective action to ensure that it does not continue in the future. If this behavior does not stop, I will be forced to take further legal action.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Tips for Writing an EEOC Complaint Letter
Know Your Rights
Before you file a complaint, it’s important to understand your rights under the law. The EEOC website has information about which types of discrimination are illegal and how to file a complaint.
Be Specific
In your complaint letter, be specific about the incidents of discrimination or harassment you experienced. Include dates, times, and locations if possible. This will help the EEOC investigate your complaint.
Use Professional Language
Your complaint letter should be professional and free of emotion. Stick to the facts and avoid making accusations that you cannot substantiate.
Keep a Copy
Make sure to keep a copy of your complaint letter for your records. You may need to refer to it later in the process.
Follow Up
After you file your complaint, follow up with the EEOC to ensure that it is being investigated. You may need to provide additional information or answer questions during the investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EEOC?
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency that enforces laws prohibiting employment discrimination.
How do I file a complaint with the EEOC?
You can file a complaint with the EEOC online or by mail. The EEOC website has information about the process and what information you will need to provide.
What happens after I file a complaint?
The EEOC will investigate your complaint and may request additional information from you or your employer. If the EEOC finds evidence of discrimination, they may attempt to resolve the issue through mediation or file a lawsuit on your behalf.
How long does the EEOC investigation take?
The length of the investigation varies depending on the complexity of the case, but can take several months or even years.
Can I file a complaint anonymously?
No, you cannot file a complaint with the EEOC anonymously. However, the EEOC will keep your information confidential to the extent possible.
Do I need an attorney to file a complaint with the EEOC?
No, you do not need an attorney to file a complaint with the EEOC, but you may want to consult with one to understand your legal options.
Conclusion
If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment in the workplace, it’s important to take action. Writing an EEOC complaint letter is one way to start the process. By following the tips above and using the examples provided, you can create a strong, effective complaint letter that will help you protect your rights.