EEOC Reports, Responds to Workplace Bias After September 11

November 19, 2001

Source: EEOC

http://www.eeoc.gov/press/11-19-01-js.html

On November 19, 2001, the EEOC, the Department of Justice and the Department of Labor issued the "Joint Statement Against Employment Discrimination in the Aftermath of the September 11 Terrorist Attacks." It read, in part: "Since the September 11 terrorist attacks, we have seen compassion and respect for people of all faiths, races, and national and ethnic origins in workplaces throughout our country. One month after the attacks, President Bush noted with gratitude this 'outpouring of compassion for people within our own country,' recognizing that individuals of many religions stand side-by-side in America. Nonetheless, we continue to receive reports of incidents of harassment, discrimination, and violence in the workplace against individuals who are, or are perceived to be, Arab, Muslim, Middle Eastern, South Asian, or Sikh. ... In the President's words, that which 'makes our nation so strong and that will ultimately defeat terrorist activity is our willingness to tolerate people of different faiths, different opinions, different colors, within the fabric of our society.' It is this diversity and inclusiveness that strengthens our country and guarantees our future prosperity. Together we can make our workplaces models of respect and understanding. And in this way we do our part to defeat those forces that seek to undermine the American way of life."