My husband applied online for a position at a local publically traded company. About a week later, they sent him a postcard asking him to call with his race & sex.

Can they ask for that? It would be obvious in his case if they asked him to come in for an interview. I'm not sure I would personally answer the questions and pursue the position with that company. If it mattered that much, it's not a company that I would personally want to work for.

Just wanted to get everyone's thoughts and perspectives.

They can probably do that, since they did. I don't think you husband has to answer. EOE shouln't "need" that, because then they wouldn't be equal. If he didn't get the job based on either of those pieces of info, that's discrimination...

No comment!

WIMP

They are probably asking for this information for their applicant data collection for Affirmative Action Plan purposes. Your husband is not required to provide it, as it is voluntary information under EEOC regulations. If he doesn't provide it, he is classified for AAP applicant data as "unknown race/gender" and not counted in their impact analysis calculations for hiring. Does it have any bearing on his chances for employment? That is strictly up to the employer.

Thanks for the info!