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Jan. 21, 2025

Understanding Informal Complaints: Your First Step Toward Resolution

All members of the Coast Guard workforce, as well as applicants for employment, have the right to engage in the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Equal Opportunity (EO) complaint process. This process is designed to provide a straightforward path to resolution.  Before filing a formal EEO/EO complaint, the process begins with the informal

Jan. 21, 2025

Building a Culture of Respect in the Coast Guard

Working for the United States Coast Guard highlights the importance of maintaining a professional and respectful workplace for everyone. Coast Guard missions require teamwork and trust among colleagues for the success of any operation, and workplace harassment whether physical, verbal, or emotional has no place in the Service. It can cause severe

Jan. 10, 2025

Equal Employment Opportunity as a Leadership Philosophy for Success

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) is more than a legal framework; it is a leadership philosophy that fosters a culture of fairness and respect in the workplace.  Leaders who embrace EEO principles recognize that equity is not just a compliance requirement—it is a key organizational asset. The fair treatment of employees fosters both organizational

Dec. 19, 2024

31 Day Equal Opportunity Challenge

As 2025 quickly approaches, we are presented with an opportunity to reset, reflect, and re-commit to pursuing a workplace and a world free of discrimination. This equal opportunity challenge is designed to be a twist on the typical New Year’s Resolution and can be done either as a group or as individuals. The goal is to educate, inspire, and spark

Dec. 19, 2024

2024 Year in Review - Tracking Civil Rights Complaints and EEO/EO Coast Guard Workforce Trends

As part of the Civil Rights Directorate’s ongoing commitment to transparency, key Equal Employment Opportunity and Equal Opportunity (EEO/EO) statistics, along with other relevant data, is shared annually. This information encompasses a wide range of topics, providing valuable insights into Coast Guard EEO/EO activity.  Issues and Bases of

Dec. 16, 2024

National Native American Heritage Month Panel Reflects on Culture, Service, and Identity

Coast Guard Headquarters hosted a National Native American Heritage Month panel in November to honor the rich histories and cultures of Native American and Alaskan Natives. The event began with a land acknowledgment to recognize the historical presence of Indigenous peoples in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region. Panelists included

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


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