Executive Order 11246

Definition

Executive Order 11246 is a United States federal order that prohibits discrimination in employment by federal contractors and requires affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity. Issued by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965, this order aimed to promote civil rights in the workplace, especially for African Americans and other marginalized groups during the Civil Rights Movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Executive Order 11246 was signed on September 24, 1965, and established guidelines for federal contractors to implement affirmative action programs.
2. The order specifically mandates that contractors take proactive steps to recruit and promote qualified minorities and women to eliminate past discrimination.
3. Non-compliance with Executive Order 11246 can result in penalties, including the loss of federal contracts.
4. The establishment of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) was a direct result of this executive order, allowing for oversight and enforcement of its provisions.
5. This order played a crucial role in shaping employment policies and practices during a time when the fight for civil rights was at its peak, significantly impacting workplace diversity.

Review Questions

• How did Executive Order 11246 contribute to the advancement of civil rights in employment during the Civil Rights Movement?
  • Executive Order 11246 contributed significantly to civil rights in employment by prohibiting discrimination against individuals based on race, color, or national origin among federal contractors. It required these employers to adopt affirmative action plans aimed at increasing the representation of African Americans and other marginalized groups in their workforce. This proactive approach was crucial in addressing systemic inequalities and promoting diversity in workplaces across the nation during a transformative period.
• Evaluate the impact of Executive Order 11246 on federal contractors and their hiring practices since its implementation.
  • Since its implementation, Executive Order 11246 has had a profound impact on how federal contractors approach hiring practices. Contractors are now obligated to actively recruit and promote minorities and women to ensure equal opportunity. This shift has led to greater scrutiny of hiring practices within federal contracts, resulting in an increase in diversity and inclusion within various industries as organizations work to comply with the affirmative action requirements mandated by the order.
• Discuss the broader implications of Executive Order 11246 in shaping U.S. labor policies and its relevance in contemporary discussions about workplace equality.
  • Executive Order 11246 has had enduring implications for U.S. labor policies, establishing a framework for addressing discrimination and promoting diversity in employment. Its relevance is evident today as discussions around workplace equality continue to evolve, particularly regarding gender equity, racial justice, and broader inclusion initiatives. The principles set forth in this executive order laid the groundwork for ongoing reforms aimed at creating equitable workplaces and challenging systemic biases that persist in modern employment practices.

Related terms

Affirmative Action: Policies that aim to increase opportunities for historically marginalized groups by promoting their admission and hiring in education and employment.

Civil Rights Act of 1964:

A landmark piece of legislation that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, and provided the foundation for subsequent civil rights policies.

Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP): A division of the U.S. Department of Labor responsible for ensuring that federal contractors comply with the legal requirements of Executive Order 11246.