DEI: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The Federal Judiciary’s 2020 Strategic Plan recognizes diversity and respect in the workplace as a core value, and further articulates a goal to “strengthen the judiciary’s commitment to workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
The Ninth Circuit is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. The Office of Workplace Relations strives to celebrate the diversity of our workforce, ensure equity in our practices and processes, and foster an inclusive working environment where all employees can thrive. The Ninth Circuit’s DEI Officer supports all 63 court units.
Diversity
The geographic reach of our circuit is the largest in the nation. Because of that, we have both the experience of serving an incredibly diverse group of constituents, as well as the unique responsibility to support a diverse group of employees.
When we use the term “diversity,” we mean to encompass the broad range of human experiences that inform the skills, talents, perspectives and approaches of our colleagues. Our workforce represents the full diversity of our society. This provides us with the opportunity to learn from each other, and to strengthen our own problem solving and decision making by taking advantage of the multiple perspectives, backgrounds and ideas that a diverse set of colleagues provides.
When we use the term “diversity,” we mean to encompass the broad range of human experiences that inform the skills, talents, perspectives and approaches of our colleagues. Our workforce represents the full diversity of our society. This provides us with the opportunity to learn from each other, and to strengthen our own problem solving and decision making by taking advantage of the multiple perspectives, backgrounds and ideas that a diverse set of colleagues provides.
Equity
In bringing together a talented and diverse group of colleagues, our circuit commits to creating workplace opportunities and environments where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. This requires a commitment to equity in our processes and policies to make sure that every individual employee is given a fair and equal opportunity, from their earliest experiences with hiring and onboarding through performance evaluations and promotions.
Equity means that everyone has the tools, opportunities and institutional support to best utilize their skills and talents to engage in meaningful work. Equity is the rising tide that lifts all boats; when everyone can do their best work, the entire circuit benefits.
Equity means that everyone has the tools, opportunities and institutional support to best utilize their skills and talents to engage in meaningful work. Equity is the rising tide that lifts all boats; when everyone can do their best work, the entire circuit benefits.
Inclusion
We can best benefit from the diverse perspectives, talents and ideas of our colleagues when we can come together in inclusive workplaces. Inclusive workplaces honor difference and promote mutual respect and understanding. Our work is made better, our ideas stronger and our perspectives broader when we can collaborate across our differences.
Inclusion is the ultimate goal of DEI work, supporting a sense of community and belonging in the workplace where all employees feel seen, heard and valued.
The Office of Workplace Relations DEI support is integral to its mission to maintain a healthy and productive workplace. The DEI Officer is available for consultation with judges, employees managers and supervisors, advice regarding implementation of best practices to support diversity in the workforce, and training and outreach programs that help us learn more about ourselves and each other to build inclusive working places.
Inclusion is the ultimate goal of DEI work, supporting a sense of community and belonging in the workplace where all employees feel seen, heard and valued.
The Office of Workplace Relations DEI support is integral to its mission to maintain a healthy and productive workplace. The DEI Officer is available for consultation with judges, employees managers and supervisors, advice regarding implementation of best practices to support diversity in the workforce, and training and outreach programs that help us learn more about ourselves and each other to build inclusive working places.