Title VII of the Civil Rights Act

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits covered employers from discriminating against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The law applies to hiring, promotion, compensation, assignments, discipline, discharge, training, and other terms and conditions of employment.

For Title VII purposes, discrimination because of sex includes discrimination based on pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Title VII also prohibits harassment and retaliation against a person who reports discrimination, participates in an investigation, or opposes conduct reasonably believed to be unlawful.

Title VII generally covers employers with 15 or more employees, including state and local governments. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces Title VII and may investigate charges, seek voluntary resolution, and bring litigation.

Cities should use consistent, job-related selection standards; document employment decisions; train supervisors; investigate complaints promptly; and prohibit retaliation. Other federal laws may also apply, including the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), Equal Pay Act, and Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).