EEOC'S Houston District Office and Mexican Consulate Sign Cooperation Agreement

Offices Agree to Work Together to Fight Discrimination

HOUSTON - The Houston District Office of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in Houston today with the Consulate of Mexico. The agreement establishes an ongoing collaboration between these entities to provide Mexican nationals with information, guidance and access to resources on the prevention of discrimination in the workplace regardless of immigration status. Mexican Consul Oscar Rodriguez Cabrera and Houston District Director Rayford O. Irvin signed the agreement.

"The signing of this MOU renews our collaborative relationship with the Mexican consulate to provide the opportunity for ongoing education, outreach and service by EEOC to Mexican nationals in our area," said Irvin. "EEOC is committed to stopping and remedying unlawful employment discrimination against immigrant, migrant and other vulnerable workers."

Each year during the last week of August, these partners join forces with worker rights groups, faith-based and community organizations and local unions, which either host or help, sponsor informational workshops, educational sessions and other special events.

Labor Rights Week is a collaborative effort between embassies, their consulates and government agencies district offices to increase awareness and inform workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities under U.S. labor laws. This MOU exemplifies the overall intent of EEOC and the Mexican consulate to continue the efforts to assist the community.

EEOC's Houston District Office is responsible for processing discrimination charges, administrative enforcement and the conduct of agency litigation in Southeast Texas and Louisiana.

EEOC is responsible for enforcing federal laws against employment discrimination. Further information is available at www.eeoc.gov.