Nov. 18, 2024

The Coast Guard's Special Emphasis Program in Action

The United States Coast Guard’s Special Emphasis Program (SEP) plays a crucial role in fostering an equitable, inclusive, and high-performing workforce. SEPs are initiatives within federal agencies that focus on enhancing opportunities, addressing employment barriers, and supporting the career development of employees. Through educational programs,

Nov. 18, 2024

Bridging Language Barriers

Did you know that the Civil Rights Directorate (CRD) oversees the Coast Guard’s Language Access Plan (LAP)? This important initiative ensures that individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) can access Coast Guard programs, activities, and events. The plan covers Coast Guard interactions with limited English speakers across the U.S., its

Nov. 18, 2024

Timeline to Resolution

As a Civil Rights Service Provider (CRSP) and Civil Rights Awareness training instructor, I am often asked about the complexities of the Equal Employment Opportunity/Equal Opportunity (EEO/EO) discrimination complaint process. One topic that I frequently dedicate significant time to is discussing the complaint process graphic (pictured at the end

Nov. 18, 2024

Access to Good Jobs For All

“Would you hire a person with disabilities to lead your team?” This question set the stage for the Coast Guard’s recent National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) panel, sparking a conversation about inclusivity, leadership opportunities, and the value that workers with disabilities bring to the workforce. On October 15th, Coast Guard

Nov. 18, 2024

Making the Holidays Inclusive for Everyone in the Workplace

In the workplace, the holiday season often brings joy, togetherness, and festive traditions. Yet amid these celebrations, it's important to consider how holiday activities can affect the Coast Guard's diverse workforce. Religious discrimination during the holiday season could be a real concern, making it important for managers and supervisors to

Oct. 16, 2024

Civil Rights Awareness Training Trends

The Civil Rights Directorate (CRD) has a robust Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) training program geared towards educating employers, employees and service members on relevant EEO laws, regulations and processes. The CRD is responsible for the mandatory triennial training that equips the workforce with the resources and knowledge to proactively

Oct. 16, 2024

The Intersection of Civil Rights and Political Discrimination

As election season approaches, the total Coast Guard workforce should be aware of any legal and policy restrictions related to political activities to better understand your rights. You might be familiar with the Hatch Act, which is a federal law that limits the political activity of government employees, but it’s also important to understand how

Oct. 16, 2024

Navy Rear Adm. Dennis Velez Shares Journey to Service During Hispanic Heritage Month

U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month on Wednesday, September 18th, with an event that honored the contributions Hispanic Americans have made to the history, culture, and progress of the United States. This year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” reflects how diverse experiences and

Oct. 16, 2024

Protected Status Explained

You may have heard the phrase “Protected Status” before and wondered how it applies to you or your colleagues. Protected Status refers to categories that defend Coast Guard military members, civilian employees, and applicants for employment from unlawful discrimination and harassment on the basis of:  Race  Color  Religion  Sex (Including

Sept. 16, 2024

Age is Just a Number

Age discrimination occurs when an applicant or employee is treated unfairly due to their age. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) of 1967 protects workers over the age of 40 against such negative treatment and was established to ensure they are evaluated based on their abilities and skills, not their age. Age discrimination in the