Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) is outraged by the firing of Equal Employment Opportunity Commissioners Jocelyn Samuels and Charlotte Burrows. This action directly threatens an independent agency that protects workers from discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, national origin, age, disability, and other characteristics in workplaces across America. With two commissioners removed, the EEOC now lacks the quorum needed to carry out its vital work.

We are deeply grateful to Jocelyn Samuels, a true champion for our community. She spent time with our staff and tradeswomen, listening to their experiences and offering guidance on addressing workplace harassment and discrimination in the construction industry. Jocelyn’s genuine connection with CWIT and tireless advocacy for equal opportunity in the trades have strengthened our work and inspired our community.

These firings are a direct attack on workers’ rights and the EEOC’s core mission. We stand in solidarity with the dismissed commissioners and will continue to fight for workplace protections for all.

Read Chicago Women in Trades and EEOC Vice Chair Host Roundtable on Harassment in the Workplace