Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Building Unity and Creating Opportunities

Established in 2020, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is a community-facing initiative that ensures diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are considered when Chesterfield provides services, resources and programs.

Chesterfield County has always been a leader in setting DEI initiatives for its workforce. In 1988, the Diversity Advisory Committee, recently renamed the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council (DEIC), was established to ensure the county workforce was reflective on the community we serve and employees provided services in a culturally sensitive manner. 

As with any successful diversity journey, Chesterfield must continue to evolve to meet the needs of a growing community and workforce. As such, the county’s DEI work continues with the creation of the DEI strategic plan, which establishes a road map for county employees working in partnership with the community to identify and recognize diversity needs. In addition, as one of the County Administrator’s top priorities, we will draw upon experiences, strengths and opportunities so that the county may continue to educate, advocate and celebrate a diverse and engaged multi-cultural community.   

As mentioned in the Diversity Plan (PDF), a guiding principle of the county states that “county employees and citizens are shareholders in our progress and serve as trustees for those values held dear: fairness, integrity, diversity and harmony, lifelong learning, appreciation of history and culture, and steadfastness in long range commitments.” As a result of a better understanding and a greater appreciation of others, our employees will have a greater capacity to work together for our common goal of providing quality service to our customers.

DEI Strategic Plan

As a community, Chesterfield County people are stronger together. We are stronger because we celebrate our differences and focus on our commonalities. We are stronger because of the unique experiences we each bring to our community. We are stronger because we provide a place where people can feel like they belong. Our intention as a county is to foster and maintain a sense of inclusion, for all to live, learn, work and play. 

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategic plan has been created to intentionally guide a community engagement initiative and will include a review and reassessment in three years. 

To foster a more inclusive community, the following strategic goals have been identified:

  1. Increase community engagement
  2. Serve people in a culturally competent manner
  3. Promote diversity, equity and inclusion success

DEI Office Vision

Our vision is to have an inclusive and resilient community that connects, engages and inspires all people. 

DEI Office Mission

Chesterfield County’s diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives foster a sense of inclusion, respect and support by building relationships and partnerships with everyone. This work is facilitated by the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.