Washington, D.C. — The U.S. The Department of Commerce recently unveiled its 2023 update to the Equity Action Plan, aligning with the Biden-Harris Administration’s overarching equity agenda. This plan, a response to the President’s Executive Order on advancing racial equity, underscores the Department’s commitment to fostering an inclusive America.
“Homogeneity is the enemy of innovation. If we are to out-build, out-innovate, and out-compete the rest of the world, we need to ensure we’re harnessing and empowering Americans across the country by utilizing our greatest strength – diversity,” stated Gina Raymond, Secretary of Commerce.
“Thanks to President Biden’s continued and steadfast commitment to supporting underserved and underrepresented communities, this Administration has made historic progress to achieving equity centered initiatives,” said Deputy Secretary Don Graves.
Through strategic goals, the plan aims to dismantle barriers to equity, promote inclusivity, and address the needs of underserved communities. Since its inception in 2022, the Department has already made significant strides, including disbursing $3 billion in economic development funds and investing in internet infrastructure and tribal support programs nationwide.
The equity strategies associated with each strategic goal is set to assist with designing programs that will address barriers to equity.
- Equity Strategy 1: Utilize our nation’s diverse talents to foster innovation and bolster global competitiveness, ensuring equitable access to opportunities for all communities
- Equity Strategy 2: Broaden avenues for growth among businesses and entrepreneurs, with a focus on underserved regions
- Equity Strategy 3: Advocate for inclusive economic development and pathways to fulfilling careers
- Equity Strategy 4: target, invest and program designs to tackle the climate crisis, promoting both environmental and economic resilience through mitigation and adaptation measures
- Equity Strategy 5: leverage data to enhance opportunities and understanding, driving actions that improve community outcomes