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New York’s DEIA Symposium: A Commitment to Inclusion

New York's DEIA Symposium_ A Commitment to Inclusion

Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced New York State’s second annual Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Workforce Symposium, a vital gathering aimed at fostering a more inclusive work environment within state agencies. This year’s symposium brought together DEIA practitioners and leaders from various State agencies, providing a platform to strategize about the current DEIA landscape and identify emerging trends. The discussions were framed around the essential values of diversity, equity, and inclusion, emphasizing the state’s commitment to these principles.

“Diversity is New York’s greatest strength — it is embodied in our history of social justice and our intrinsic commitment to civil rights,” Governor Hochul said. “As DEIA efforts are attacked across the nation, we have focused on building the most diverse administration in the State’s history, and cementing a more equitable and more inclusive future for New Yorkers.”

The importance of representation was echoed by Lieutenant Governor Delgado, who stated, “New Yorkers need to see themselves represented by their government. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I am profoundly committed to embracing and emboldening our state’s diversity, and continuing to have the necessary conversations on DEIA so that we can always welcome fresh ideas and new voices — that’s how we cultivate a stronger, more connected New York.” This emphasis on representation is crucial, as it ensures that every community feels valued and acknowledged within the governance framework.

Adding to this commitment, Governor’s Chief Diversity Officer Julissa Gutierrez remarked, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is not just responding to the challenges of today but setting a bold new standard for inclusive governance. We are dedicated to creating a government that reflects the strength and richness of our diverse communities — where systems are just, opportunities are equitable, and every employee belongs. Today’s second annual New York State DEIA Symposium is a moment for us to energize our efforts, deepen our commitment, and continue building a workforce that is truly reflective of the people we serve.”

The daylong in-person event, organized by the Governor’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, was packed with expert speakers, workshops, award presentations, wellness opportunities, and strategic relationship building. Building on the success of the inaugural symposium, this year’s event featured a plenary on the current legal landscape of DEIA in addition to five workshops tailored to address both current needs and emerging trends. The workshops included:

  • Developing Leadership Buy-in for DEIA Efforts
  • Expanding Equity from the Inside Out
  • Integrating Trauma-Informed Approaches with DEIA
  • Strengthening Accountability in DEIA through Self-Care
  • Developing a Community of Practice for DEIA Practitioners: What’s Next for DEIA Practitioners and How is the Work Evolving?

These sessions aimed to equip participants with the tools necessary to ensure that New York State’s DEIA initiatives are not only effective but sustainable.

Additionally, the state recognized the accomplishments of a state agency, an agency head, and a DEIA practitioner who have all made outstanding contributions toward advancing DEIA initiatives for New York State. The awards celebrated those who have demonstrated excellence through their efforts to recruit and retain talent, foster an inclusive and accessible workplace, and promote equity in policies and programming. The three awards were presented to:

  • New York State Department of Labor
  • Dr. Minosca Alcántara, Executive Director, New York State Bridge Authority
  • Talia Santiago-Bonds, Chief Diversity Officer, New York State Office of Mental Health

As the first female Governor of New York, Governor Hochul has been a champion for DEIA. In her 2024 State of the State address, she directed executive-controlled agencies with more than 300 full-time employees to hire a Chief Diversity Officer or another position dedicated full-time to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Additionally, she directed the Office of Employee Relations, in collaboration with the Governor’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, to develop a DEI training for all State employees. This initiative is complemented by the Department of Civil Service — in collaboration with the Governor’s Office — to initiate and provide anti-racism training.

Moreover, Governor Hochul has implemented several initiatives to strengthen and diversify the workforce. These actions include eliminating Civil Service exam application fees, launching a public awareness campaign to promote thousands of open jobs in state government, and establishing Centers for Careers in government to assist New Yorkers in finding careers in state service. The Governor has also expanded opportunities through the Governor’s Program to Hire Individuals and Veterans with Disabilities (55 b/c), provided funding for new testing centers across the State, and expanded the NY HELPS program, which temporarily waives the civil service exam requirements for thousands of vacant state job opportunities accessible to the general public.

Through these initiatives, Governor Hochul and her administration are not only laying the groundwork for a more diverse and equitable workforce but also fostering an environment where all voices can be heard and valued. By prioritizing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, New York is setting a powerful example for other states to follow, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive workplace.

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