On the Workplace of the Chief Info Officer (OCIO), range isn’t only a buzzword, it’s the colourful tapestry that enriches our on a regular basis work setting. On March 27, 2024, Government Director, Avery Q. Muse, Sr. and OCIO’s Workplace of Operations (Ops) organized a particular occasion centered round range, fairness, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) the place colleagues from numerous ethnic backgrounds got here collectively to share a chunk of their tradition via 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 have been adorned with dishes representing cuisines from all over the world, every dish telling a narrative of heritage, custom, and household recipes handed down via 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 couple 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 have been celebrated, the place curiosity sparked conversations, and the place stereotypes have been shattered by the facility of firsthand expertise. When requested about his expertise, Lead IT Specialist Antwan Lucas stated, “The occasion created the perfect setting for development and collaboration.”
Via 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 range isn’t nearly numbers or statistics; it’s about embracing the richness of human expertise in all its types. Appearing Chief Info Officer (CIO) Jennifer C. Wendel famous, “Prioritizing DEIA within the office helps OCIO appeal to and retain expertise. Greater than ever, potential workers wish to work for organizations that share the identical core values. Specializing in DEIA permits workers to be comfy being themselves, resulting in extra inventive and revolutionary concepts.”
As we savored every chew and exchanged tales, we have been reminded of the significance of making an setting 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 attempt in direction of a office the place range, inclusion, and fairness should not simply beliefs however lived realities.
In the long run, the occasion was not simply in regards to the meals, however in regards to the connections solid, the limitations damaged, and the bonds strengthened. It was a testomony to the facility of range to unite us, to broaden our horizons, and to make our office actually a house away from house.
A particular due to Supervisory IT Venture 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 setting of range, fairness, inclusion, and accessibility for all.
