So, Your Workplace Feels Less Like a Sitcom and More Like a Reality Show? How to File an EEOC Complaint in Texas (Because Let's Be Honest, Sometimes Karen Needs to Be Stopped)
Let's face it, sometimes the office environment can be wilder than a Texas rodeo. You show up in your finest business casual attire, ready to slay the day, only to be met with a microaggression buffet or a boss who makes Michael Scott look like a management guru. If you feel like you're being discriminated against at work based on your race, religion, gender, disability, or national origin (basically, anything that isn't your work ethic!), then the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) might be your knight in slightly-starched armor. But here in Texas, things can be a little different.
Hold Your Horses! Texas Has Options
That's right, partner! The Lone Star State offers you two choices for filing a discrimination complaint: the EEOC or the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The EEOC is your federal option, and they deal with discrimination based on those protected categories we mentioned earlier. The TWC covers similar ground, but they also handle some additional stuff, like retaliation for filing a complaint.
Okay, Doc, How Do I Wrangle Up This EEOC Thing?
There are a few ways to mosey on down to EEOC-ville and file your complaint.
- Online Corral: Head on over to the EEOC's Public Portal (https://www.eeoc.gov/how-file-charge-employment-discrimination) and wrangle up that online form. It'll ask you some questions to see if the EEOC is the right fit for your situation.
- In-Person Powwow: Saddle up and ride to your nearest EEOC office. You can find the one closest to you on their website (https://www.eeoc.gov/how-file-charge-employment-discrimination).
- Mail Mavericks: If you're more of a loner ranger, you can always mail in your complaint. Just be sure you get a receipt so you can track that pony express delivery.
Now, some key things to keep in mind:
- You generally have 180 days to file a charge with the EEOC after the discrimination happened (or the last time it happened). Don't wait too long to hightail it over there!
- Gather up your evidence! The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.
- This ain't a one-horse town, partner. The EEOC can't give you legal advice, but they can help you understand your rights and the process.
Should I Partner Up with a Lawyer?
While you don't necessarily need a lawyer to file a complaint, it might not be a bad idea to have one in your corner, especially if things get complicated.
Remember: The EEOC is there to help! Don't let workplace bullies or discrimination hold you back. File your complaint and take a stand for your rights.
And who knows, maybe your story will inspire a future season of "The Office." (But hopefully a little less cringe-worthy.)
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
