The Department of Labor, on February 15, announced an update to its 2023 Equity Action Plan.
The objective is to build "an inclusive economy through historic investments that create good jobs across the country," said Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, in a statement." At the Department of Labor, we’re focused on making sure those good jobs are equitable and accessible to all workers, including Black workers, Hispanic workers, workers of color, women, and many more communities that have historically been left out or left behind.
“When underserved individuals and communities have access and pathways to good jobs, it boosts productivity, innovation and economic well-being for everyone. We will continue to use all of our available resources to expand our economy while promoting the economic and social well-being of all workers.”
Su continues to explain that "disparities in our laws and public policies, and in our public and private institutions, have often denied that equal opportunity to individuals and communities. These inequalities leave some workers more at risk of injury, discrimination, exploitation, or abuse."
Building on the progress of the Equity Action Plan, the department developed five areas of focus for its 2023 Equity Action Plan update:
- Supporting workers, including those in the Southeast United States.
- Ensuring underserved communities have access to good jobs.
- Embedding gender equity into our partnerships and services.
- Improving services for individuals with limited English proficiency.
- Evaluating procurement practices to advance equity, including to support small, disadvantaged businesses such as Black- and women-owned businesses.
DOL notes that since the release of the 2022 Equity Action Plan, the Department of Labor has:
- Strengthened partnerships to prevent and address workplace retaliation.
- Provided millions of dollars in state grants to improve the Unemployment Insurance system.
- Created a Centralized Office for Language Access so that our services can reach all workers regardless of language barriers.
- Launched a national online dialogue to strengthen employment and training services.
- Expanded Registered Apprenticeship Program opportunities.
