Afirm, Equal Employ

Often times, diversity management is mistaken for Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity, which are specific programs based on requirements of the law. And while DOT is strongly committed to the success of Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity, diversity management takes on a much broader perspective and goes beyond legal provisions to embrace the multitude of ways we are different. Diversity's spirit of inclusion extends to everyone. It's about eliminating barriers that create a work environment that welcomes, respects, develops and leverages our individual differences and uses those differences as a competitive edge.

Racial and ethnic equality demand our unwavering support and commitment. And because no group is homogenous. It goes beyond race and gender. For example, within any culture there exists a multitude of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. These dimensions in people can be markedly different according to the experiences of their generation; their social contacts, families and friendships; and the kind of work they do.

Diversity means we need to attract and retain a work force that reflects the diversity of our nation and provide a work environment where everyone is included, above and beyond the requirements of the law.

Diversity Management Defined at DOT

Diversity management at DOT means creating and maintaining a work environment that:

· Provides opportunity for all employees to maximize their potential and fully contribute to accomplishing the organization's mission.

· Does not advantage or disadvantage any group, and ensures all team members

treat each other with dignity and respect.

Diversity management is a separate and distinct initiative that coordinates and enhances other programs that impact employment to create and maintain a positive work environment such as those related to hiring, equal opportunity, and work and family life.