NELA celebrates the confirmation of Kalpana Kotagal as the newest commissioner of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Ms. Kotagal's extensive record of fairness and justice will strengthen the EEOC as it continues its mission to protect workers from discrimination.
Ms. Kotagal has extensive litigation experience handling cases on behalf of employees under a range of federal civil rights and employment discrimination statutes, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), the Equal Pay Act, the Rehabilitation Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Her lifetime commitment to civil rights and equal justice as well as her creativity and leadership, will benefit the workers across the country.
"Kalpana has been an inspirational champion for workers' rights," said NELA Executive Director Jeffrey Mittman, "and her long-awaited confirmation is a well-deserved recognition of her efforts. We congratulate Kalpana and look forward to working with her and the full complement of EEOC Commissioners to continue pursuing equity for those suffering injustices in the workplace, and clarify the rights and responsibilities of workers and employers alike."
Ms. Kotagal is a partner in Cohen Milstein's Civil Rights & Employment practice and co-chair of the firm's Hiring and Diversity Committee. She has been a member of the NELA community since 2010.
