Executive Order 11246

Definition

Executive Order 11246 is a significant directive signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965 that prohibits discrimination by federal contractors on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This order mandates that all government contracts include provisions to ensure equal opportunity and requires federal agencies to take affirmative action to promote diversity in the workforce. Its implications are broad, impacting both employment practices and efforts to combat racial discrimination in the workplace.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Executive Order 11246 established a system for monitoring compliance with non-discrimination and affirmative action requirements among federal contractors.
2. The order led to the creation of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), which enforces affirmative action and non-discrimination laws.
3. This executive order applies to all companies with federal contracts exceeding $10,000.
4. Non-compliance with Executive Order 11246 can result in contract termination and debarment from future government contracts.
5. Executive Order 11246 has been pivotal in shaping affirmative action policies and promoting diversity in the workplace across various sectors.

Review Questions

• How did Executive Order 11246 change the landscape of racial discrimination in federal contracting?
  • Executive Order 11246 significantly altered the landscape of racial discrimination by mandating that all federal contractors adhere to non-discrimination policies and take affirmative action. This requirement compelled companies that relied on government contracts to actively promote diversity in their hiring practices and eliminate discriminatory behaviors. As a result, this executive order played a critical role in increasing opportunities for minorities in the workforce and reducing systemic barriers to employment.
• Discuss the role of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) in enforcing Executive Order 11246.
  • The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) was established as a direct outcome of Executive Order 11246 to ensure that federal contractors comply with non-discrimination and affirmative action requirements. The OFCCP conducts audits and investigations into contractor practices to monitor adherence to these regulations. When violations are identified, the OFCCP has the authority to impose penalties, which can include terminating contracts or prohibiting companies from receiving future government work.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Executive Order 11246 on civil rights movements and workplace equality in the United States.
  • The long-term impact of Executive Order 11246 on civil rights movements and workplace equality has been profound. By establishing legal frameworks that required federal contractors to implement affirmative action policies, the order laid the groundwork for broader societal changes regarding employment discrimination. Over time, this executive order not only advanced civil rights initiatives but also inspired similar policies in state governments and private sectors. Its legacy continues to influence ongoing discussions about equity and diversity in workplaces across America.

Related terms

Affirmative Action:

Policies aimed at increasing opportunities for historically marginalized groups, particularly in employment and education.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC):

A federal agency responsible for enforcing laws against workplace discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and age.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: A key piece of legislation that prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.