Facilitating Diversity in the Federal Workforce

As a successor to Executive Order 11246 which was signed in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, President Obama further issued an order with an aim to initiate a government wide program which encourages inclusion and diversity in the federal workforce. 

With an aim to reach out to military personnel as well as civilians who are currently working in a range of agencies, departments and operating environments across the nation – this particular order is different from the Executive Order 11246 which demands compliance. This particular order demands adherence to the law without any negotiations. 

Is this another Law?

Technically speaking, this order isn’t exactly new legal rule. With already a significant number of laws and protocols in place, this order simply expects comprehensive consolidation and coordination of efforts that ensure diversity within a federal work environment. 

The Objective of this Order 

The primary objective of President Obama’s Executive Order is to create a work environment which facilitates fairness, collaboration and flexibility that allows a diverse group of people to participate in organizational growth in their full possible potential. 

With the government’s ability to hire, promote and retain a more diverse workforce, it also aims to set an example to private sectors where racial prejudices are still prevalent. 

Consider this simple checklist while taking actions that encourage diverse work environments – 

1.      Identification of behaviors which are associated with inclusion and diversity that can be applied to routine interactions at the workplace.
2.      Exhibit communication and learning associated with these behaviors to discourage discriminatory behavior within the workplace.
3.     Consider a regulatory rather than a cultural approach where required.
4.      Make sure the group leaders within your organization have accepted diversity as an organization culture. Oversee what they say, how they communicate and how they handle issues when they arise.
5.      Use training sessions and on the job learning as a tool to inculcate tolerance within your work environment. 

To be able to encourage equal opportunities in a federal work environment, it is important that the specific behavioral definitions are put in place which does not result in conflicting interpretations. With a zero-tolerance policy against workplace discrimination, it is possible for organizations to make a positive impact on cultural harmony.