Equal employment opportunity (or EEO) defined as “same chance” or “equal opportunity” makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates and employees based on certain characteristics or traits. The goal of the law is to enable all candidates and employees to be treated fairly when in consideration for and employment decisions. Characteristics that are covered by EEO include:
race/color
National origin/ethnicity
Religion
Age
sex/gender/sexual orientation
Physical or mental disability
Non-compliance with EEO laws can result in organizations facing legal action in the form of lawsuits and fines.