April 22, 1994

The Department of State is committed to equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment for all. The Department shall not discriminate among its employees or candidates for employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

September 13, 1993

As we explore ways to enhance the-overall mission Of the Department of State, I will be paying particular attention to the Department's efforts in the areas of equal employment opportunity (EEO) and civil rights as they pertain to our Civil and Foreign Service employees and to applicants for employment. While progress has been made toward greater diversity, much remains to be done. The workforce of the Department should reflect the diversity of the American people and be representative of women and minorities at all levels.

The Department must accelerate its efforts to ensure that we not only recruit but also retain 'a workforce that reflects America's diversity To this end, I call on everyone, particularly managers and supervisors, to be actively involved in eliminating barriers where they exist and ensuring the proper and affirmative utilization of all employees. managerial and supervisory performance should be evaluated seriously and accurately to comply with this requirement.

All employees have the right to work or seek employment in an environment governed by merit principles and free from unlawful discrimination or reprisal based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual harassment), age, religion, or handicap. In cases of allegations of discrimination, the investigation and resolution of such allegations shall be handled promptly and impartially. Particular emphasis will be placed on the fair and equitable resolution of long-standing employment issues which adversely affect women and minorities. In instances where employees have conducted themselves contrary to Department policy, the imposition of sanctions, consistent with Federal personnel policy will be mandated.

If the Department of State is to be effective in promoting American principles of democracy through our foreign policy, then we must lead by example and make concerted efforts to ensure fair and equitable treatment of all employees employment, and applicants for others who benefit from our programs and activities. We must be committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity, affirmative action, and diversity in the workforce.