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US Employment Law

Title VII (Civil Rights Act of 1964)

The cornerstone US federal anti-discrimination law that prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants based on race, colour, religion, sex, or national origin.

Legal Definition

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. § 2000e) applies to employers with 15 or more employees. It prohibits discrimination in hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, and any other term or condition of employment on the basis of race, colour, religion, sex, or national origin. The Supreme Court extended Title VII to cover sexual orientation and gender identity in Bostock v. Clayton County (2020). The EEOC enforces Title VII — employees must file a charge within 180 days (or 300 days in states with their own agencies) before suing.

📖 Constitutional / Statutory Basis: Commerce Clause; 14th Amendment (equal protection as background principle)

Practical Example

A qualified Black applicant is passed over for promotion in favour of a less-qualified white colleague, and has evidence of racially biased comments by the decision-maker. She files a Title VII charge with the EEOC within 180 days. After investigation and failed conciliation, the EEOC issues a right-to-sue letter and she files in federal court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Title VII cover sexual harassment in the US?
Yes. The Supreme Court held in Meritor Savings Bank v. Vinson (1986) that sexual harassment creating a "hostile work environment" is sex discrimination under Title VII. Both quid pro quo harassment (demands for sex in exchange for job benefits) and hostile environment harassment are covered.
Do I have to file with the EEOC before suing under Title VII?
Yes — filing an EEOC charge and receiving a right-to-sue letter is a mandatory prerequisite to a Title VII lawsuit. The EEOC charge must be filed within 180 days of the discriminatory act (or 300 days in states with their own anti-discrimination agencies). Missing this deadline bars your federal claim.

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