Army Equal Opportunity Regulation AR 600-20 stands as a cornerstone of the United States Army’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all its members. This comprehensive regulation Artikels the principles, policies, and procedures that guide the Army’s Equal Opportunity (EO) program, ensuring fair treatment and equal opportunity for all.
AR 600-20 establishes a clear framework for preventing and addressing discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or sexual orientation. It defines the roles and responsibilities of commanders, supervisors, and all Army personnel in promoting EO and maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace.
Army Equal Opportunity (EO) Program
The Army EO program is a comprehensive initiative designed to promote equal opportunity and prevent discrimination and harassment within the Army. It is based on the principle that all Army members deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.
The EO program’s objectives are to:
- Foster a climate of inclusion and respect
- Prevent and eliminate discrimination and harassment
- Ensure equal opportunity for all Army members
- Promote understanding and appreciation of diversity
Army Regulation (AR) 600-20
AR 600-20 is the Army’s primary regulation governing equal opportunity. It provides detailed guidance on the EO program, including the types of prohibited discrimination and harassment, the responsibilities of ers and supervisors, the procedures for filing and investigating EO complaints, and the training and education requirements for EO personnel.
AR 600-20 applies to all Army members, including active duty, reserve, and National Guard personnel, as well as civilian employees of the Army.
Prohibited Discrimination and Harassment
AR 600-20 prohibits discrimination and harassment based on the following protected characteristics:
- Race
- Color
- Gender
- Religion
- National origin
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity
- Disability
- Age
- Genetic information
Discrimination can take many forms, including:
- Denying someone a promotion or opportunity
- Treating someone differently because of their protected characteristic
- Creating a hostile work environment
Harassment is a form of discrimination that involves unwelcome conduct that is based on a protected characteristic and that creates a hostile work environment. Harassment can be verbal, physical, or sexual in nature.
The consequences of engaging in discriminatory or harassing behavior can be severe, including:
- Administrative action
- Criminal charges
- Loss of job
Responsibilities of ers and Supervisors, Army equal opportunity regulation ar 600-20
Ers and supervisors have a critical role to play in promoting EO and preventing discrimination and harassment. Their responsibilities include:
- Creating a climate of inclusion and respect
- Setting a good example
- Enforcing the EO policy
- Investigating and resolving EO complaints
- Providing EO training and education
Ers and supervisors must be aware of the signs of discrimination and harassment and must take immediate action to stop it.
Complaint Procedures
If you believe that you have been discriminated against or harassed, you can file an EO complaint. The complaint process is confidential and impartial.
To file an EO complaint, you must:
- Contact your unit’s EO representative
- Provide a written statement of your complaint
- Cooperate with the investigation
The EO representative will investigate your complaint and make a recommendation to the commander. The commander will then make a decision on whether or not to take disciplinary action.
Training and Education
EO training and education is essential for all Army members. This training helps to raise awareness of the EO program and to prevent discrimination and harassment.
All Army members are required to complete EO training on an annual basis. The training covers a variety of topics, including:
- The EO policy
- The types of prohibited discrimination and harassment
- The responsibilities of ers and supervisors
- The complaint process
Case Studies and Examples
The following case studies and examples illustrate the application of AR 600-20:
- A female soldier is denied a promotion because she is pregnant. This is a violation of AR 600-20 because it is based on the soldier’s sex.
- A gay soldier is harassed by his supervisor because of his sexual orientation. This is a violation of AR 600-20 because it is based on the soldier’s sexual orientation.
- A Muslim soldier is treated differently because of his religion. This is a violation of AR 600-20 because it is based on the soldier’s religion.
These are just a few examples of the many ways that AR 600-20 can be applied to prevent discrimination and harassment in the Army.
Q&A: Army Equal Opportunity Regulation Ar 600-20
What is the purpose of Army Equal Opportunity Regulation AR 600-20?
AR 600-20 establishes the principles, policies, and procedures for the Army’s Equal Opportunity program, which aims to prevent and address discrimination and harassment based on protected characteristics.
Who is responsible for enforcing AR 600-20?
All Army personnel, including commanders, supervisors, and individual soldiers, are responsible for adhering to and enforcing the provisions of AR 600-20.
What are the consequences of violating AR 600-20?
Violations of AR 600-20 can result in a range of disciplinary actions, including administrative sanctions, adverse personnel actions, or criminal charges.
How can I file an EO complaint?
EO complaints can be filed through the chain of command or through the Army’s Equal Opportunity Advisor or Equal Employment Opportunity Office.
