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In Reply Refer To:
Mail Stop 602
GS12000100

November 4, 2011

Memorandum

To: All U.S. Geological Survey Employees

From: Marcia McNutt (signed)
Director

Subject: U.S. Geological Survey Non-Discrimination Policy Statement

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO).  All employees, former employees, applicants for employment, and members of the public who seek to participate in USGS programs, activities, and services will not be discriminated against because of any of the following:

• race
• national origin
• sex (including pregnancy and gender identity)
• religion
• color
• age
• disability
• sexual orientation
• genetic information
• status as a parent

The USGS also will not tolerate reprisal against those who exercise their rights under applicable EEO laws.

As the Director of the USGS, I remain committed to ensuring that all employees have the freedom to compete fairly and equitably.  EEO covers all personnel and employment programs, management practices, and decisions, including but not limited to recruiting and hiring, merit promotions, transfers, reassignments, training and career development, benefits, and separations.

I will ensure that EEO program requirements are enforced in accordance with the governing regulatory guidelines.  The USGS will investigate and address allegations of discrimination or workplace harassment promptly and professionally.  Where allegations are substantiated, appropriate action will be taken.

I am committed to enforcing the USGS policy of fair and equitable treatment for all employees, applicants for employment, or members of the public who believe they have been subjected to unlawful discrimination.

Employees or applicants who believe they have been discriminated against by the USGS have the right to file a complaint with the USGS, Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity.  If you want to file a complaint, the first step is to contact an EEO counselor within 45 days of the alleged discriminatory action.  You may then choose to participate in either counseling or alternative dispute resolution if available.  At the end of counseling or alternative dispute resolution, if the matter is not resolved, you may then file a formal EEO complaint.  For additional information about the EEO complaint process, or if you have questions regarding the policy or a specific situation related to this policy, please call the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity or contact an EEO counselor at (703) 648-7770 or (866) 816-1106.

This policy will be posted in all Human Resources offices, the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity, and on the USGS internal Web site as a means to communicate the high-level of importance of equal employment opportunity at the USGS.