When diversity, equity, and inclusion are not explicitly brought into decision making, the American people are at a disadvantage. Without intentional intervention, institutions and structures will continue to perpetuate inequities. Government has the ability to implement policy change at multiple levels and across sectors to drive larger systemic change. Our nation’s future depends on having leaders who are as diverse as its many peoples.
Diversity
The US Government is one that represents the mosaic of America. It is composed of leaders who hold varying identities, experiences, and backgrounds that include gender, gender identity, race, color, tribal citizenship, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, national origin, familial obligations, veteran status, and previous civic service. Examples of our recommended policies and practices to realize this opportunity include (but are not limited to):
- Developing action plans with built-in institutional accountability mechanisms and operating with a sense of urgency [Government Alliance on Race & Equity]
- Appointing a Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer and a Standing Government-wide Committee to work with the Office of Personnel Management and the Presidential Personnel Office [Inclusive America]
- Tracking and analyzing the demographic information on newly hired staff and applicants, as appropriate, to evaluate strategies [Department of Justice]
Equity
The US Government helps to ensure fair treatment, levels the playing field, and allows access to resources for all. We believe that equity can only be achieved when we recognize the existing societal and structural barriers to success. Examples of our recommended policies and practices include (but are not limited to):
- Developing a timely, comprehensive publically-available single source that tracks data on political appointees [US Government Accountability Office]
- Minimizing bias in hiring and promotions (appoint bias interrupters, set clear, consistent evaluation criteria, require evidence to justify evaluation rating) [Bias Interrupters]
- Identifying organizational power differentials and change them by exploring alternative leadership models [Equity in the Center]
Inclusion
The US Government fosters an environment that actively invites the perspective, contribution, and participation of all people (especially from those who are historically underrepresented.) We believe that inclusion is not just valuable, but absolutely necessary in addressing present power imbalances. Examples of our recommended policies and practices include (but are not limited to):
- Debiasing the workplace (anonymize resumes, address pay inequity through transparency, implement gender-inclusive language, etc.) [Harvard Kennedy School]
- Ensuring and consistently reaching out for input from those affected [Our Secure Future]
- Have community representation at the board level, either on the board itself or through a community advisory board [Equity in the Center]
For more information about various government reports aiming to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion, visit our page: Government Reports.