Equal Opportunity

Definition

Equal opportunity refers to the policy that all individuals should have an equal chance to apply and be selected for jobs regardless of their gender, age, race, religion or disability.

Analogy

Imagine running a race where everyone starts from the same starting line at the same time. That's what equal opportunity is about - ensuring everyone gets a fair start without any unfair advantages or disadvantages.

Related terms

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): The U.S federal agency responsible for enforcing laws against workplace discrimination.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Legislation passed in 1990 prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life including jobs and schools.

Title IX: A federal civil rights law passed as part of Education Amendments Act 1972 which prohibits sex-based discrimination in any school or other education program that receives federal money.