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Filing a Complaint

Internal: Using the County Process

Complainants may file an internal complaint with the Diversity Programs Unit (DPU) or their respective Agency/Department by downloading the Alameda County Complaint Form and submitting the form by email, mail or fax. Complainants may also visit the Diversity Programs Unit in person for assistance with filing a complaint.

Filing Deadline

Complaints must be filed with the County's Diversity Programs Unit within three years from the date the last alleged act of discrimination took place or from the date the complainant should have first become aware of the alleged discriminatory action or violation.

Investigation of Complaints

Within 10 working days of receipt of a complaint, the Diversity Programs Unit (DPU) or an Agency/Department Diversity Coordinator will send a letter to the complainant acknowledging receipt of the complaint. Complainants may contact either the DPU or the Agency/Department Diversity Coordinator in writing or over the phone to schedule an intake interview. The intake interview affords the Diversity Programs Unit or the Agency/Department Diversity Coordinator an opportunity to clarify the issues involved and allows the Complainant an opportunity to present the complaint in more detail.

Depending on the outcome of the initial intake interview, an investigation may include reviewing and obtaining copies of relevant documents (such as personnel files, attendance reports, and performance evaluations), interviewing witnesses (co-workers and supervisors), and any other actions considered necessary to obtain relevant information.

Complainants are entitled to a full, objective and prompt investigation by qualified personnel. It is important to remember that the individual who brings forth the complaint is responsible for substantiating the charges. Therefore, it is necessary to cooperate with the investigation by providing written materials, names of individuals to interview, or any other information which would assist in the investigation. Complainants may contact the DPU or the Agency/Department Diversity Coordinator during the process for reasonable updates or to address any questions and concerns.

Confidentiality will be provided throughout the investigation process to the greatest extent possible, with the understanding that information may be disclosed on a need-to-know basis and as otherwise permitted to assist in the resolution of a complaint. Complainants are asked to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of the complaint process.

Complainants are entitled to a timely decision after full consideration of all relevant facts and circumstances. If misconduct is found, appropriate remedial measures will be taken. Complainants will be informed of the County's decision on the complaint and closure of matters.

Persons Named as a Respondent

Unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation by co-workers, supervisors, managers and third parties (e.g., vendors and customers), is prohibited and these people can be named as Respondents.

Respondents being charged with discriminatory practices will be informed of the charge and allowed to respond once an investigation is initiated. When the investigation is completed, the charged party will be informed of the results with a letter of determination. Information gathered during an investigation will be kept in confidence to the greatest extent permissible under the law.

Retaliation is Prohibited

Persons will not be exposed to retaliation due to lodging a complaint or participating in any workplace investigation. State and Federal law prohibits retaliation/reprisal against persons who have exercised their rights to inquire or complain about matters they believe may violate the law. Discrimination against persons who have cooperated in inquiries is also prohibited. These protections apply regardless of Alameda County's determination on the merits of the charge.

Anyone who believes they have experienced retaliation or discrimination based on their participation or use of the complaint process should immediately contact the Diversity Programs Unit and/or the Agency/Department Diversity Coordinator.

Role of Management

Supervisors should immediately report complaints or incidents of alleged misconduct to their Agency/Department Diversity Coordinator and/or the Diversity Programs Unit to effectively address workplace concerns, internally.

External: Using Federal and State Processes

You are entitled to file a concurrent complaint of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation with external agencies, such as the State of California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

The filing period for the CRD is three years, and for the EEOC 300 days, from the date that the last alleged act of discrimination took place or from the date you should have first become aware of the violation.