Delaware report brings attention to state’s work environment

Delaware officials released a report that shows how much the state value diversity and equal opportunity for all state employees.

On Friday, the state’s Office of Management and Budget shared the report commissioned by Governor Jack Markell that focuses on the work environment across local government.

“I have been clear that my administration is committed to ensuring that we foster a healthy, supportive, and responsive work environment for all State employees,” Gov. Markell said.

Earlier this year State employees were encouraged to participate in state-wide hearings conducted by the Delaware Faith in Action Council and the NAACP. In September, the Ivy Planning Group conducted an independent review of the state policies and procedures in order to make recommendations as well.

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“We value everyone’s participation in this process, which has led to the meaningful recommendations in this blueprint for action moving forward. By fulfilling our obligation to ask hard questions and make needed reforms, we will strengthen State government’s place as an employer of choice for Delawareans seeking impactful careers, and build a welcoming work environment that values and supports the talents and abilities of all our people,” Markell said.

Ivy Planning Group has made the full report available online.

It was well received by the participants with nearly 6,000 responses from state employees and 110 focus groups. The report presented by the Ivy Planning Group also made it a point to commend the state for its diversity thus far but also noted that are a number of areas of under-represented and could use opportunities for improvement. One suggestion is to strengthen recruitment efforts to attract diverse candidates statewide.

“We appreciate Governor Markell for his demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion, and for supporting this study. His insight has been invaluable,” said Gary A. Smith of Ivy Planning Group.

To date, the state has made great strides in increasing employment for people with disabilities and protecting people in the LGBTQ community.

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