ARS' EEO policy mandates equal opportunity for all persons and prohibits discrimination in all aspects of the Agency's personnel policies, practices, and operations. All barriers that impede the employment, hiring, promotion, and retention of any employee must be eradicated from the workplace. Improper treatment of any individual is a distraction from the Agency's mission.
Discrimination is costly, nonproductive, and affects everyone.
All managers, supervisors, and employees are required to work towards the elimination of discrimination in the work force. Discrimination will not be tolerated and anyone who acts in a manner contrary to this policy will be held accountable. The Agricultural Research Service must be above reproach regarding its treatment of employees and applicants for employment. Communication regarding the early resolution of complaints must be open and differences resolved promptly. Equal opportunity is the right of every ARS employee and is an important part of our organizational priorities.