Commissioner Rettig's Equal Opportunity Policy Memorandum

 

October 30, 2020

The Internal Revenue Service is an equal opportunity employer that prohibits any form of discrimination and harassment. We are committed to providing an environment that is representative of the diverse workforce and community we serve. We promote behaviors that strengthen our community by removing barriers, inspiring creativity, and driving innovation to achieve our mission of providing a fair and efficient tax system.

I will continue to cultivate an environment that provides every individual with equal opportunity in employment programs and occupational activities across all aspects of personnel operations. All IRS employees and applicants will be afforded equal protection under the law, to include all applicable Federal EEO laws, rules, regulations, Executive Orders, and directives. I will ensure fairness in all aspects of employment including promotion, evaluation, transfer, assignment, training, benefits, and separation by ensuring all employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and IRS business needs.

The IRS will not tolerate harassment or any form of discrimination based on race, color, sex (gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, and transgender status), national origin, religion, age (40 and over), disability (mental or physical), parental status, protected genetic information, and retaliation for engaging in the EEO process. The IRS is further committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and for religious practices, in accordance with applicable authorities.

Aggrieved persons who believe they have been discriminated against should contact an EEO Counselor to begin the EEO administrative process. All IRS employees identified as witnesses need to cooperate in the informal and formal EEO complaint process in a timely manner. Full cooperation and participation is required to ensure the integrity of the EEO administrative process and to meet regulatory deadlines.

To pursue a claim of discrimination, you must contact an EEO Counselor within 45 calendar days of the alleged discriminatory event. Employees may report allegations of discrimination including harassment based on sex, retaliation for participating in EEO activities or any other prohibited bases, by contacting EEO through the Employee Resource Center via IRS Source or by calling 866-743-5748. Sexual Harassment may also be reported by calling the Sexual Harassment Hotline at 866-298-7672.

— Charles P. Rettig