Executive Order 11246

Definition

Executive Order 11246 is a significant order signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965 that prohibits discrimination in federal employment and requires affirmative action to ensure equal employment opportunities. This order specifically applies to federal contractors and subcontractors, mandating that they take proactive steps to recruit and promote qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, thereby linking it directly to the goals of affirmative action programs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Executive Order 11246 applies to all federal agencies and any organization that receives federal contracts exceeding $10,000.
2. The order requires federal contractors to implement affirmative action programs aimed at ensuring equal employment opportunities for all individuals.
3. Contractors must establish specific goals and timetables for achieving diversity in their workforce as part of their affirmative action plans.
4. The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is responsible for enforcing compliance with Executive Order 11246 among federal contractors.
5. Non-compliance with the order can result in sanctions including loss of federal contracts or debarment from future contracting opportunities.

Review Questions

• How does Executive Order 11246 influence the recruitment practices of federal contractors?
  • Executive Order 11246 requires federal contractors to implement affirmative action plans that focus on recruiting, hiring, and promoting qualified individuals from underrepresented groups. This means that contractors must actively seek out diverse candidates, establish outreach efforts, and create a work environment that supports equal opportunities. By mandating these practices, the order directly influences how contractors shape their workforce and fosters greater inclusivity in the hiring process.
• What role does the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) play in enforcing Executive Order 11246?
  • The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is tasked with ensuring that federal contractors comply with the provisions of Executive Order 11246. The OFCCP conducts regular audits and reviews of contractor practices to assess their adherence to affirmative action requirements. If a contractor is found to be non-compliant, the OFCCP can impose penalties, including financial sanctions or restrictions on future government contracts, thereby playing a critical role in upholding the principles of equal employment opportunity outlined in the executive order.
• Evaluate the impact of Executive Order 11246 on workplace diversity and inclusion initiatives across different sectors.
  • Executive Order 11246 has had a profound impact on promoting workplace diversity and inclusion not only within federal contracting but also across various sectors influenced by its standards. The requirements for affirmative action have encouraged organizations beyond government contracts to adopt similar practices as they recognize the importance of diverse workforces in enhancing innovation and performance. As a result, many private-sector companies have implemented their own diversity initiatives inspired by the principles established in Executive Order 11246, contributing to a broader cultural shift toward inclusivity in the workplace.

Related terms

Affirmative Action: A set of policies and practices aimed at increasing the representation of marginalized groups in employment and education through proactive measures.

Federal Contract Compliance: The requirement for federal contractors to adhere to specific laws and regulations, including non-discrimination and affirmative action policies as mandated by Executive Order 11246.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): A federal agency that enforces laws against workplace discrimination and oversees compliance with various employment-related statutes, including those related to Executive Order 11246.