How do the Equal Employment Opportunity laws primarily serve employees?

The primary function of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws is to protect individuals from discrimination in the workplace. This set of laws establishes a framework that prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants based on characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information. The emphasis on protecting individuals from discrimination is crucial because it helps to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment where everyone has the opportunity to pursue employment and advancement based on their qualifications and abilities, rather than facing biases.

Understanding the intent behind EEO laws highlights their significance in promoting diversity and preventing discriminatory practices that can adversely affect employees' experiences at work. This legal protection empowers employees to seek justice if they feel they have been unfairly treated based on the protected characteristics, thereby promoting a healthier workplace culture.

In contrast, while ensuring fairness in the hiring process may be a broader goal of EEO laws, it is not the sole purpose. The laws do not specifically guarantee certain salaries or provide job security directly; rather, they focus on equity and non-discrimination which may indirectly affect aspects like hiring practices and job retention.