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Definitions, terminology, gender policy, and disability rights

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is committed to providing Oregonians with equal access to its programs and services, as well as fair and equal employment opportunities.

DCBS employees will treat all people with dignity and respect, and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, age, marital status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, political or religious affiliation, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council hosts regular events for our team members to learn and engage with community members with diverse identities and experiences to help further our mission.

Definitions

Diversity

Diversity is the quality of being different or unique at the individual or group level. This includes age; ethnicity; gender; gender identity; military status; language differences; nationality; parental status; physical, mental, and developmental abilities; race; religion; sexual orientation; skin color; socio-economic status; work and behavioral styles; and the perspectives of each person shaped by that individual’s nation, experiences, and culture. Even when people appear the same on the outside, they are different.

Equity

Equity is giving everyone what they need to be successful. Equality aims to promote fairness, but it can work only if everyone starts from the same place and needs the same thing. Equality is treating everyone the same. We must first ensure equity before we can enjoy equality.

Inclusion

Inclusion is a state of being valued, respected, and supported. Inclusion should be reflected within DCBS' culture, practices, and relationships by supporting a diverse workforce for all people to achieve their full potential. We build a culture of belonging by actively inviting the contribution and participation of all employees.

Supporting materials

Diversity, equity, and inclusion manager

This position oversees the agency’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This person reports to the agency director and provides the strategic direction for the diversity outreach and Affirmative Action Plan for the agency. This person provides leadership, creativity, and an innovative approach to community outreach to attract and retain underrepresented people. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council is under this person's responsibility.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council

The DCBS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council is an advisory body that promotes achieving the agency’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and business needs through effective culture change strategies. The council’s three subcommittees – Events, Governance, and Training – help fulfill the goals of the council and the agency’s diversity, equity, and inclusion mission. They promote (Events), share resources (Training), and review (Governance) areas regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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​​​​Contact us

DiversityAndInclusion.dcbs@dcbs.oregon.gov