1. PURPOSE. This Manual sets forth policy and guidance for Coast Guard Military Equal Opportunity (EO) and Civilian Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) programs. It outlines responsibilities and procedures aimed at equipping Coast Guard members with access to expert assistance on EEO/EO matters, and provides tools that will assist unit leaders in building a model EEO workplace. The model EEO program prescribed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) ensures that all employees and applicants for employment enjoy equality of opportunity in the workplace regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, disability, genetic information, marital status, parental status, political affiliation, reprisal or retaliation for participation in prior EEO/EO activity, and any other basis protected by the law.