A “Sample Letter To The EEOC On Discrimination” is a template. It helps you tell the EEOC about workplace discrimination. You might need it if you believe your employer discriminated against you. This could be due to your race, religion, gender, or other protected characteristic.
Writing to the EEOC can feel daunting. It’s important to clearly explain what happened. You must also provide key details.
That’s why we’re here to help. We will share sample letters. These samples will make writing your letter easier. Use these samples as a guide. Tailor them to your specific situation.
Sample Letter To The Eeoc On Discrimination
**Sample Letter To The Eeoc On Discrimination**
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
[EEOC Office Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
**Subject: Complaint of Discrimination**
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to file a formal complaint of discrimination against [Employer’s Name], located at [Employer’s Address]. I believe I have been discriminated against based on [Protected Characteristic, e.g., race, sex, religion, age, disability] in violation of [Relevant Law, e.g., Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Americans with Disabilities Act].
I was employed by [Employer’s Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date] as a [Your Job Title].
[Clearly and concisely describe the discriminatory actions or incidents. Include dates, names of individuals involved, and specific details of what happened. Be factual and avoid emotional language. For example:
* “On [Date], my supervisor, [Supervisor’s Name], made a derogatory comment about my [Protected Characteristic]. Specifically, [Quote the comment].”
* “I was denied a promotion on [Date], despite being more qualified than the selected candidate, [Candidate’s Name]. I believe this decision was based on my [Protected Characteristic] because [Explain the reason].”
* “I requested a reasonable accommodation for my disability on [Date]. This request was denied without explanation.” ]
I believe these actions constitute discrimination because [Explain why you believe the actions were discriminatory. Refer to company policies or practices that were violated, if applicable. For example: “This violates company policy regarding equal opportunity employment” or “Similarly situated employees who do not share my [Protected Characteristic] were treated more favorably.”].
As a result of this discrimination, I have suffered [Describe the harm you have experienced, e.g., emotional distress, financial loss, job loss].
I have attached copies of [List any supporting documents, e.g., performance reviews, emails, witness statements].
I request that the EEOC investigate this matter thoroughly and take appropriate action to remedy the discrimination I have experienced. I am available to provide further information or documentation as needed.
Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To The Eeoc On Discrimination
1. Subject Line: Concisely Capture the Essence
The subject line isn’t merely a formality; it’s your letter’s headline. It should immediately convey the purpose of your correspondence to the EEOC. Be direct and avoid ambiguity.
- Example: “Charge of Discrimination – [Your Name] – [Type of Discrimination] – [Employer Name]”
- Be specific, mentioning age, race, gender, religion, or disability if applicable.
2. Salutation: Initiate with Professionalism
Begin your letter with a formal salutation. This sets a respectful tone from the outset. Address your letter appropriately.
- Use “Dear Equal Employment Opportunity Commission” or “To Whom It May Concern” if you don’t have a specific contact.
- Avoid overly casual greetings.
3. Introduction: Articulate Your Purpose with Clarity
The introduction is where you state your intention unequivocally. Clearly articulate you are filing a charge of discrimination.
- State your name, contact information, and the name of the organization or individual against whom you are filing the charge.
- Example: “I am writing to file a formal charge of discrimination against [Employer Name] for discriminatory practices based on [Protected Characteristic].”
4. Body Paragraphs: Narrate the Chronicle of Events
This section is the heart of your letter. Provide a detailed, chronological account of the discriminatory incidents. Include specific dates, times, locations, and witnesses, if any. Be thorough but avoid extraneous details.
- Describe each incident with precise language.
- Include any relevant documentation or evidence you possess.
- Explain how the actions of the employer or individual were discriminatory.
- Illustrate any disparate treatment you experienced compared to others.
5. Supporting Evidence: Bolster Your Claims with Tangible Proof
Whenever possible, buttress your allegations with concrete evidence. This might include emails, performance reviews, or witness testimonials. Scanned copies are often adequate for initial submission but retain the originals.
- List all documents being submitted as attachments.
- Briefly explain the relevance of each document to your claims.
- Ensure all documents are legible and accurately labeled.
6. Remedy Sought: Express Your Desired Resolution
Specify what outcome you are seeking from the EEOC’s intervention. This could include reinstatement, back pay, policy changes, or other forms of redress.
- Clearly state your desired remedy or remedies.
- Be realistic and reasonable in your expectations.
- Consider seeking legal counsel to help determine appropriate remedies.
7. Closing: Conclude with Professional Courtesy
End your letter with a professional closing. Express your willingness to cooperate fully with the EEOC’s investigation.
- Use a formal closing such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”
- Include your typed name, signature, and date.
- Provide a phone number and email address where you can be easily reached.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Sample Letter to the EEOC on Discrimination
This section addresses common questions regarding the process of submitting a sample discrimination letter to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
It provides clarity on the appropriate steps and considerations when reporting potential discriminatory practices.
What is the purpose of a sample letter to the EEOC?
A sample letter to the EEOC serves as a formal communication to initiate an investigation into alleged discriminatory practices. It outlines the details of the incident, the basis of discrimination, and the remedies sought.
What information should be included in the discrimination letter?
The letter should include your contact information, the employer’s information, a clear description of the discriminatory incident, the specific type of discrimination (e.g., race, gender, age), dates, witnesses, and any supporting documentation.
How do I submit the discrimination letter to the EEOC?
The letter can be submitted to the EEOC via mail or through their online portal. Check the EEOC’s official website for the most up-to-date submission guidelines and required forms.
Is there a deadline for filing a discrimination charge with the EEOC?
Yes, there are strict deadlines for filing a charge of discrimination. These deadlines vary depending on the state and the type of discrimination, but they are typically between 180 and 300 days from the date of the alleged discriminatory act.
What happens after I submit the sample discrimination letter?
After submitting the letter, the EEOC will review your charge and determine whether to investigate. They may contact you for additional information, interview witnesses, and request documents from the employer to assess the validity of the claim.