Affirmative action is defined by Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) regulations as the obligation on the part of the contractor (URI) to take action to ensure that applicants are employed, and employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Per Executive Order 10925, the affirmative action obligation reaches all terms, conditions, and privileges of employment, including recruitment, promotion, termination, and compensation.