It is the policy of the City of Philadelphia to assure equal employment opportunity to its employees and applicants for employment on the basis of fitness and merit without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, political affiliation, handicap, sex, sexual orientation, perception of sexual orientation or age (except where age is a bona fide occupational qualification).

In accordance with the principles of civil and equal rights legislation, each employee and prospective employee of the City will be afforded fair and equitable treatment in all terms and conditions of employment.

Equal employment opportunity will be incorporated into the personnel policy that governs the employment procedures of the City of Philadelphia.  It is not the intent of this policy to permit or require the lowering of bona fide job requirements or qualification standards to give preference to any employee or applicant for employment.  However, positive affirmative measures shall be taken to recruit qualified minorities, females, and handicapped persons to all levels of City employment where under-utilization is reflected.

My administration endorses the comprehensive efforts outlined in the Equal Employment Opportunity Plan, which the Personnel Director has prepared.  I will hold the heads of all Departments, Agencies, Boards and Commissions accountable for the development and implementation of a biannual review of Equal Employment Opportunity plans necessary to achieve the City's goals.

This policy is effective immediately.