ADM-08. An exploration of opportunities to create a more equitable and inclusive workplace, specifically in NOAA’s Chemical Sciences Laboratory. What is WEI?

Abstract
NOAA’s Chemical Sciences Laboratory’s (CSL) Working Group for Equity and Inclusion (WEI) is a group of motivated CSL members seeking to elevate topics related to equality and inclusivity in the workplace conversation. We start with the definition of the words Equity and Inclusion that shape the scope of CSL WEI’s activities. Equity is defined as “justice according to natural law or right; specifically: freedom from bias or favoritism” and Inclusion is defined as “the act or practice of including and accommodating people who have historically been excluded (as because of their race, gender, sexuality, or ability)” (Merriam-Webster). We strive to identify opportunities for actionable changes and solutions to improve the work experience of our CSL colleagues. CSL members self-organize for discussions, learning and share experiences related to equity and inclusion. Collectively with the CSL federal employees, who provide perspectives on topics that relate to multi-institutional workforce, we explore the culture of our workplace related to the practice of equitable and inclusive behavior. Subgroups formed around four topics that emerged during the larger group discussions: 1.) Lab Culture, 2.) Individual Learning, 3.) Hiring and 4.) Pipelines. This presentation offers a look into the CSL WEI. We provide details and specific topics that are addressed by each of the 4 subgroups. We will discuss achievable opportunities specifically identified by CSL WEI such as an advocate program, a website/intranet listing resources to foster a sense of belonging and safety in the workplace, actions to more strongly engage with Minority Serving Institutions (MSI), actions to make the hiring process more equitable and inclusive. CSL WEI is an open working group that always welcomes participation, learning and action.