What is the primary requirement of Executive Order #11246?

The primary requirement of Executive Order #11246 is for federal contractors to implement affirmative action programs. This executive order was signed in 1965 and mandates that any contractor doing business with the federal government must take proactive steps to ensure that they are providing equal employment opportunities for all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. These affirmative action programs are designed to identify and eliminate barriers to employment for underrepresented groups and to increase diversity within the workforce.

This order reflects the government's commitment to promoting equality in the workplace and addressing historical injustices by requiring that federal contractors not only comply with existing anti-discrimination laws but also take specific actions to enhance their recruitment, hiring, and promotion practices. While promoting diversity in federal hiring is an essential aspect of this mandate, the core requirement emphasizes the implementation of affirmative action programs by federal contractors as a means to achieve these diversity goals.