Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA)

On June 25, 2021, President Biden signed Executive Order 14035, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce. This Executive Order launched a Government-wide initiative to cultivate a federal workforce that draws from the full diversity of the Nation and that advances equitable employment opportunities. The Executive Order reaffirms that the United States is at its strongest when our Nation’s workforce reflects the communities it serves, and when our public servants are fully equipped to advance equitable outcomes for all American communities.

The Department of Commerce (DOC) is committed to implementing Executive Order 14035 and has developed the DOC DEIA Strategic Plan 2022-2024.  This comprehensive plan will help the Department and bureaus make progress in recruitment, career advancement, and ensure that our workplace is accessible to all while strengthening our anti-harassment efforts across the Department

Ways DOC Employees and Leadership Can Participate in DEIA-Related Initiatives

During the DEIA Townhall in January 2022, you learned that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility are top priorities for the leadership at DOC. DEIA is a part of how we do business at Commerce. To be as successful as possible, we need you to join us in our efforts. Your voice and support will help us shape our focus by knowing when we are getting things right and when we need to re-adjust or identify new priorities and directions. Here are some ways to become a valued part of the DEIA process.

• Join Affinity or Employee Resource Groups- With more than 70 Employee Resource Groups across the department, these groups provide a place for employees interested in meeting, discussing, and collaborating on issues of mutual interest. These groups offer opportunities for career development and other topics such as financial management and how to apply for SES positions, to name a few benefits.  
• Participate in listening sessions or town hall meetings- The purpose of these sessions via focus groups will be to facilitate discussions about your perceptions, concerns, and experiences. Access the January Equity Townhall here.
• Participate in DEIA training- You can find DEIA training at the Commerce Learning Center. Examples of the training include unconscious bias, conflict resolution, and navigating cultural differences. You can identify these opportunities by visiting the CLC website or clicking here: CLC. 
• Plan/organize Special Observance or commemorative events- The purpose of these events is to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility while acknowledging the contributions of communities that make up our nation! Special Emphasis Programs
• Share your ideas and experiences with The Office of Civil Rights, and other DEIA bureau offices- The Office of Civil Rights, public affairs, and other DEIA Offices welcome your stories and experiences. You, too, can see your narrative highlighted in the Commerce Employee Spotlight or other DEIA newsletters. Contact OCR at [email protected].

A FEW WAYS SUPERVISORS AND LEADERS CAN SUPPORT DEIA:

• Create and maintain a safe, equitable, and inclusive work environment for your employees, so they feel comfortable speaking about their issues and concerns.
• Uphold Equal Employment Opportunity laws, Departmental policies, and the department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. OCR EEO Complaint Page.
• Understand the legal and regulatory definitions, the theories of discrimination, and the EEO process/program basics.
• Prevent, recognize, and end discrimination and harassment (of any kind) in the workplace.
• Participate in, support, and encourage your employees to engage in diversity and inclusion events, special observance programs, and employee resource/affinity groups.
• Utilize the hiring authorities and programs available to you; know your Bureau’s workforce demographics and employment goals.
• Volunteer to serve as a Champion or Sponsor for an affinity group.
• Mentor/Coach someone outside of your diversity demographics.
• Issue a memo to staff supporting the DEIA and EEO policies.
• Take time to discuss DEIA topics in your staff meetings.

As DOC employees, we invite you to get involved and advocate for the Department’s DEIA initiatives. We rely on you to be the voice to emphasize the importance of the DEIA Council’s work, the DEIA Committees, OCR, and the Bureau's DEIA Councils.

DEIA Resources

• DOC Equity Action Plan
• DOC Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Strategic Plan
• DOC FY21 Federal Equal Opportunity Recruitment Program Report
• DOC FY20 Federal Equal Opportunity Recruitment Program Plan
• DOC Office of Civil Rights
• U.S. Office of Personnel Management Diversity and Inclusion Program
• Employee Engagement Toolkit

Councils

• DOC Equity (DEIA) Council
• DOC Bureau DEIA Councils

Affinity Groups

• HCHB Affinity Group/Employee Resource Group Listing
• CENSUS Affinity Group/Employee Resource Group Listing
• NOAA Employee Resource Group Co-Chairs and Affinity Group Leaders
• NIST Employee Resource Group Listing

Additional Resources:

• Addressing Workplace Issues
• DOC Equity (DEIA) Council
• DOC Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Strategic Plan

DOC Bureau offices and points of contact click Here.