In an effort to strengthen the Federal workforce by promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. has signed an Executive Order on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce. This order aims to cultivate a workforce that draws from the full diversity of the nation and establishes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility as priorities for the administration and the entire Federal Government.
Policy and Importance of Diversity
As the largest employer in the nation, the Federal Government must lead by example and serve as a model for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. The order emphasizes the importance of treating all employees with dignity and respect, removing barriers to equal opportunity, and providing resources and opportunities to strengthen and advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility across the Federal Government.
Research has shown that diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible workplaces lead to higher-performing organizations. By drawing upon diverse perspectives, the Federal Government can overcome challenges and achieve greater accomplishments.
Definitions and Strategic Plan
The order provides definitions for key terms such as underserved communities, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the context of the Federal workforce. It establishes a Government-wide Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Initiative and Strategic Plan, which will be developed and issued within 150 days of the order. This plan will define standards of success, identify strategies to advance diversity and equity, and address barriers to equity throughout various aspects of the Federal workforce.
Responsibilities of Executive Departments and Agencies
Each agency head is responsible for prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within their agency and implementing the Government-wide plan. Agency heads are required to assess the current state of diversity and equity in their human resources practices and workforce composition, develop and submit Agency Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Strategic Plans, and report on the agency’s progress in advancing diversity and equity.
Data Collection and Pay Equity
The order emphasizes the importance of data collection to measure demographic representation and trends related to diversity and equity in the workforce. The head of each agency will implement revised guidance to expand the collection of voluntarily self-reported demographic data, ensuring privacy and confidentiality protections.
Furthermore, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) will review Government-wide regulations and guidance to address any pay inequities and advance equal pay. The Director may work with agencies to revise job classification and compensation practices and consider prohibiting the use of salary history when setting pay for employees.
Advancing Equity for Employees with Disabilities and LGBTQ+ Employees
The order addresses the advancement of equity for employees with disabilities and LGBTQ+ employees. It emphasizes the creation of an equitable and inclusive environment for employees with disabilities, ensuring accessibility and reasonable accommodations. Additionally, it promotes supportive services, equitable healthcare coverage, accurate representation of gender identities, and the reduction of barriers in security clearance and background investigation processes for LGBTQ+ employees.
Expanding Employment Opportunities for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
To support equal opportunity for formerly incarcerated individuals, the order directs the Director of OPM to evaluate barriers faced by these individuals in accessing Federal employment opportunities. The evaluation may lead to the establishment of a new hiring authority, expanding job opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Conclusion
The Executive Order on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce underscores the commitment of the Biden administration to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the Federal Government. By prioritizing these principles, the administration aims to strengthen the Federal workforce, remove barriers to equal opportunity, and create a more inclusive and representative government.
This order aligns with the broader efforts of the administration to advance equity and promote fairness across all sectors. It recognizes the importance of fostering diverse perspectives and creating an environment where all employees are treated with dignity and respect. With this order, the Federal Government takes a significant step towards building a more equitable and inclusive future.