Chapter 03: Equal Employment Opportunity and Human Resources Management
climate in which the principles of dignity, respect, and the acceptance of a diverse workforce are the norm and
therefore expected.
120. The Glass Ceiling Act
never made it out of congressional committee.
was declared unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court.
protects only white females.
created the Glass Ceiling Commission.
121. Individuals with AIDS or HIV are “disabled” within the meaning of the
Civil Rights Act of 1991.
Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
state and local anti-discrimination laws only.
122. Why do businesses need to be aware of executive orders that apply to government contractors? What are some of
those orders and their provisions?
Executive orders are used to provide equal employment opportunity to individuals employed by government
contractors. Since many large employers and numerous small companies have contracts with the federal
government, managers are expected to know and comply with the provisions of executive orders and other
laws.
Executive Order 11246 (1965), as amended by Order 11375 (1966):
Prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin by government
contractors with contracts exceeding $10,000; requires contractors employing 50 or more workers to develop
affirmative action plans when government contracts exceed $50,000 per year.
Executive Order 11478 (1969):
Obligates the federal government to ensure that all personnel actions affecting applicants for employment be
free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
123. Explain the different forms of sexual harassment as recognized by the EEOC.
The EEOC recognizes both quid pro quo and hostile work environment forms of sexual harassment. Quid pro
quo harassment involves a tangible or economic consequence, such as a demotion or loss of pay. If a
supervisor promotes an employee only after the person agrees to an after-work date, the conduct is clearly
illegal.
Hostile work environment harassment can occur when unwelcome sexual conduct “has the purpose or effect
of unreasonably interfering with job performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working
environment.” Dirty jokes, vulgar slang, nude pictures, swearing, and personal ridicule and insult create a
hostile environment when an employee finds them offensive. E-mail, instant and text messages, and posts on
social-networking sites have become convenient ways for employees to sexually harass their coworkers
electronically.
124. What should be included in a training program when trying to prevent discrimination claims?
A comprehensive training program will include (1) the prohibitions covered in the various EEO statutes and