What is the main focus of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972?

The main focus of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972 is to prevent employment discrimination based on various factors such as race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This act strengthens the framework established by the original Civil Rights Act of 1964, which aimed at eliminating discrimination in employment practices. The 1972 amendment expanded the enforcement provisions and aimed to promote equality in the workplace by allowing individuals to file complaints against discriminatory practices and seek redress.

This broad scope of preventing discrimination encompasses multiple categories beyond just gender or pay, making it more comprehensive in addressing inequities in the workplace. The act also extended protections to federal, state, and local government employees, further reinforcing its commitment to equal employment opportunities across various sectors.