On the Workplace of the Chief Data Officer (OCIO), variety isn’t only a buzzword, it’s the colourful tapestry that enriches our on a regular basis work surroundings. On March 27, 2024, Govt Director, Avery Q. Muse, Sr. and OCIO’s Workplace of Operations (Ops) organized a particular occasion centered round variety, fairness, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) the place colleagues from varied ethnic backgrounds got here collectively to share a chunk of their tradition by means of meals. What ensued was not only a culinary extravaganza however a celebration of unity and understanding.
The occasion was a feast for the senses! Tables had been adorned with dishes representing cuisines from all over the world, every dish telling a narrative of heritage, custom, and household recipes handed down by means of generations. A sampling of our menu for the day included: Irish stew, Guyanese fried rice, Papa a la Huancaina, black eye peas with oxtails, rooster kabab with Indian bread, samosas, Mediterranean salad, coconut rice with crimson beans, curry goat, banana pudding, candy potato pie, and Scottish cookies, simply to call a number of.
Past the scrumptious meals, the actual magic occurred as colleagues gathered round to share tales, laughter, and experiences. It was an area the place variations had been celebrated, the place curiosity sparked conversations, and the place stereotypes had been shattered by the ability of firsthand expertise. When requested about his expertise, Lead IT Specialist Antwan Lucas mentioned, “The occasion created the perfect surroundings for progress and collaboration.”
By way of this occasion, we reaffirmed our dedication to fostering an inclusive office the place each voice is valued, and each tradition is revered. It was a reminder that variety isn’t nearly numbers or statistics; it’s about embracing the richness of human expertise in all its varieties. Appearing Chief Data Officer (CIO) Jennifer C. Wendel famous, “Prioritizing DEIA within the office helps OCIO appeal to and retain expertise. Greater than ever, potential staff wish to work for organizations that share the identical core values. Specializing in DEIA permits staff to be comfy being themselves, resulting in extra inventive and modern concepts.”
As we savored every chew and exchanged tales, we had been reminded of the significance of making an surroundings the place everybody feels seen, heard, and appreciated. This occasion was not only a one-time affair however a catalyst for ongoing dialogue and motion, as we proceed to try in the direction of a office the place variety, inclusion, and fairness aren’t simply beliefs however lived realities.
Ultimately, the occasion was not simply concerning the meals, however concerning the connections solid, the boundaries damaged, and the bonds strengthened. It was a testomony to the ability of variety to unite us, to broaden our horizons, and to make our office really a house away from dwelling.
A particular due to Supervisory IT Mission Supervisor Yolanda Reid for her management in organizing and to everybody who contributed a dish, assisted with organising and or performed a component with this fruitful occasion. And because of Assistant Secretary for Administration Cheryl R. Campbell, Appearing CIO Jennifer C. Wendel, and Appearing Deputy CIO La Monte R. Yarborough, for becoming a member of the celebration and whose steadfast management continues to foster an surroundings of variety, fairness, inclusion, and accessibility for all.
