Wisconsin Council on Equity and Inclusion

The strategic plan focuses on co-creating recommendations with GEIAC members for Wisconsin public and private sector policies. It aims to build organizational cultures that embed equity and inclusion in recruitment, hiring, onboarding, promotion, and employee retention. Key strategies include prioritizing skills-based qualifications, offering family-sustaining benefits, expanding diverse recruitment efforts, and fostering a workplace where employees from marginalized backgrounds feel valued and included.

The meeting included updates on the annual diversity awards program and upcoming cultural celebrations. Governor Evers expressed his excitement to continue the work of the Council and refocus its work. Secretary Designee Blumenfeld provided an update on statewide outreach efforts and tourism. Lt. Governor Barnes discussed leadership and the importance of leading progressive and sustainable change. The subcommittees provided updates on their work, including community engagement, data and policy, and economic and business development. The Council discussed its roles and responsibilities, and heard presentations from the Equal Rights Division and the Division of Personnel Management.

The meeting included announcements regarding Governor Evers's fifth State of the State address and Executive Order #182, recreating non-statutory committees. Updates were provided on the State of Wisconsin Student Diversity Internship Program (SWSDIP). The council discussed state office updates, including Governor Evers's commitment to youth mental health. New board members were welcomed, and subcommittee reports were presented, covering community engagement, data and policy, and economic and business development. The Department of Administration provided updates on investments in organizations serving businesses in economically distressed communities and the Wisconsin Supplier Diversity Program. The council reviewed its work in 2022 and discussed strategies for 2023-2024, focusing on recommendations and innovative practices. Subcommittee members also discussed the current subcommittee structure and process.

The Governor's Advisory Council on Equity and Inclusion meeting included budget updates and discussion on the American Rescue Plan Act, focusing on the use of funding to support equity and inclusion efforts. Subcommittee reports were given on Community Engagement, Economic & Business Development, and Data and Policy. The council discussed the data landscape and resource gathering, including questions to be answered and methods for receiving information. Updates were provided by the Department of Transportation (DOT) on the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) contract process, as well as agency overviews and equity and inclusion updates from the Department of Corrections, Department of Workforce Development, and Department of Safety and Professional Services.

The council meeting included state office updates from the Lt. Governor and the Department of Administration (DOA). The Lt. Governor discussed the proposed budget and its support for diversity, equity, and inclusion priorities, while the DOA provided updates on its programs, wellness initiatives, affinity groups, and the equity and inclusion strategic plan. Subcommittee reports were given on community engagement, data and policy, and economic and business development. The Bureau of Equity and Inclusion (BEI) provided an update on its responsibilities, including supporting agency equity and inclusion plans and developing professional development opportunities. Additionally, the council discussed Wisconsin's economy and workforce, GEIAC leadership opportunities, and the upcoming August meeting.