Glossary

Abuse of Authority An arbitrary or capricious exercise of power that adversely affects the rights of any person or results in personal gain or advantage to any person.

Age Discrimination Is prohibited by the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, which covers those who are 40 years of age and older.

Color There is no standard definition for the term "color"; however, color has been frequently associated with race or a subclass within a race. Discrimination on the basis of color is prohibited.

Disability The condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness.

Discrimination Unfair treatment of a person or group on the basis of prejudice.

Gender Discrimination on the basis of gender is illegal, and this prohibition includes sexual and sex-based harassment.

Gross Mismanagement/Gross Waste of Funds Involve a management action/inaction that creates a substantial risk of significant adverse impact on the government's ability to accomplish its mission or to properly manage its funds.

National Origin Discrimination Refers to adverse treatment due to someone's ethnicity or heritage.

No FEAR Act Notification and Federal Employee Antidiscrimination and Retaliation

Race People who are believed to belong to the same genetic stock. It is unlawful for a Federal agency to take an official action (e.g., hiring, performance appraisal, promotion, award, discipline, termination) on the basis of race.

Religion Discrimination on the basis of religion covers persons of all faiths, including those who do not practice any religion.

Retaliation Also known as reprisal, occurs when an action is taken against an employee because they: (1) previously filed a complaint of discrimination; (2) participated in a matter involving a complaint of discrimination or other equal employment opportunity matter; or (3) opposed an action because it was purportedly discriminatory.

Whistleblower An employee, former employee, or member of an organization, especially a business or government agency, who reports misconduct to people or entities that have the power and presumed willingness to take corrective action.


Select Return to return back to the previous page you were on in the course.