Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity within the Workforce System

“Equal opportunity is the bedrock of American democracy, and our diversity is one of our country’s greatest strengths. But for too many, the American Dream remains out of reach.”

– White House Executive Order 13985

In January 2021, the White House issued Executive Order 13985: Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government to “pursue a comprehensive approach to advancing equity for all, including people of color and others who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality.” In 2023, the White House issued Executive Order 14091: Further Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government to continue “the work begun with Executive Order 13985 to combat discrimination and advance equal opportunity, including by redressing unfair disparities and removing barriers to Government programs and services.” In response to Executive Order 13985, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), as well as other federal agencies, developed equity action plans. The Department of Labor Equity Action Plan summarizes the Department’s efforts to identify barriers to more equitable access to programs and services and outlines the steps for expanding access to those communities.

The Department of Labor is deeply committed to improving the well-being of underserved, marginalized, disadvantaged, and excluded communities.

– DOL Equity Action Plan

Over the past several years, DOL has become aware of successful and promising nondiscrimination and equal opportunity practices that promote inclusion of underserved populations, including people with disabilities.

Keep reading for resources and inspiration to increase inclusion and access, including:

• Updates to the Section 188 Disability Reference Guide that provide the workforce system with concrete ways to improve equity and inclusion,
• How one local workforce area is moving the needle toward more inclusive and equitable practices both within and outside the workforce system, and
• High-level strategies to effectively serve people with intersecting identities to ensure equal access to programs and services.