Age discrimination legislation has been enacted to protect older American workers from discrimination, job loss, or loss of benefits due to their age. At one time, older workers were universally valued for their experience and wisdom. In fact, younger workers were sometimes discriminated against, and required the help of no less a force than First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to help bring about change. Today, we have the Age Discrimination Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA). It protects workers and potential workers age 40 and older from discrimination in hiring, benefits, promotions, firing, pensions, and more. It is backed by the power of the EEOC, which mediates solutions for workers and employers. In most cases mediation is sufficient, but when it is not, a civil suit is possible. The solutions to age discrimination can include back pay and reinstatement, as well as even "liquidated damages" when the discrimination is willful.