The Department has chosen mediation as the primary ADR method in resolving EEO disputes because it empowers the parties themselves to reach an acceptable resolution of the conflict. Below is a digitized version of OCRs EEO Mediation Guide. 

• Preface
• What Is Alternative Dispute Resolution?
• What Is Mediation?
• What Are Departmental Reasons for Using ADR & Mediation?
• What Are Typical Organizational Experiences with Mediation?
• What Are the Goals of Mediation?
• When Is Mediation Appropriate?
• When Is Mediation Inappropriate?
• What Are Some Concerns Expressed About Mediation?
• How Is Mediation Elected?
• Who Participates in Mediation?
• What Happens in a Mediation Session?
• How Will Mediators Be Selected?
• How Can a Party Prepare for Mediation?
• How Does Mediation End?
• Are Settlement Agreements Binding?
• What Can You Do If You Believe the Department Is Not Adhering to the Terms of the Settlement Agreement?
• How Does Participation in Mediation Affect An Employee's Rights?
• Appendix A: Time Frames in the Complaint Process
• Appendix B: Pre-Complaint Election Form
• Appendix C: Formal Complaint Mediation Election Form
• Appendix D: DOC ADR Agreement to Mediate Form

For More Information:

• Contact your Bureau's EEO Officer or call the Department's Office of Civil Rights at (202) 482-0625

Alternate Formats: OCR publications can be made available in other formats upon request by any of the above methods.

The information contained in this publication is intended as a general overview and does not carry the force of legal opinion.