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Equal Employment Opportunity Branch

EEO Complaints

To file an EEO complaint, visit our online Equal Opportunity eFile Module. For questions on issues or how to file a complaint you may contact the Rural Development Civil Rights staff via the contact us button below, or call them at 1-800-787-8821.

COVID-19 Workplace Safety

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on USDA’s Response to COVID-19 Workplace Safety

The Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Branch is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective programs of EEO under Section 717 of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), as amended, and Section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Rehabilitation Act), as amended. In accordance with guidance from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the EEO Branch ensures RD’s Title VII and Rehabilitation Act programs are legally compliant and that all employment decisions pertaining to RD employees and applicants are free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, reprisal or disability.

The EEO Branch, in collaboration with Agency senior leadership, managers, supervisors and employees, strives to maintain effective EEO programs which incorporate the six essential elements of model Title VII and Rehabilitation programs:

  • Demonstrated commitment from agency leadership;
  • Integration of EEO into the agency's strategic mission;
  • Management and program accountability;
  • Proactive prevention of unlawful discrimination;
  • Efficiency; and
  • Responsiveness and legal compliance.

The EEO Branch provides EEO counseling and alternative dispute resolution services in an attempt to resolve allegations of employment discrimination. Additionally, the EEO Branch provides advisory services to RD management and employees; and periodically assesses the Agency’s workforce representation, complaint activity, proposed employment actions, policies and practices in order to remove any barriers to free and open workplace competition.