Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Code for America, we strive to create lasting change and build equitable, people-centered government systems that work well for everyone. Equity is not just a core value, but also at the center of our work. We don’t just talk about the promise of an America built on equity, respect, dignity, and freedom—we create and measure it. We must address deep inequities threaded into our country’s history and work toward more equitable outcomes for the people we serve. To that end, in addition to our work changing government systems, we have also prioritized an overall vision for what it means to be a truly equitable, diverse, and inclusive organization—where everyone can bring their whole selves to work and feel a sense of shared belonging. With our DEI work, we strive to be a leader in tech ecosystems—and beyond.

Diversity includes all the ways in which people differ, encompassing the different characteristics that make one individual or group different from another. While diversity is often used in reference to race, ethnicity, and gender, we embrace a broader definition of diversity that also includes mission-relevant experience, age, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, marital status, language(s) spoken, and physical appearance. We also recognize that individuals affiliate with multiple identities.

Equity is fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. In order to improve equity, we must increase justice and fairness within the procedures and processes of institutions or systems, as well as in their distribution of resources. Tackling equity issues requires an understanding of the root causes of outcome disparities within our society. This is integral to Code for America’s mission.

Inclusive environments are places in which any individual or group is and feels welcomed, respected, supported, valued, and able to fully participate. An inclusive and welcoming culture embraces differences and offers respect in words and actions for all people, and fosters a diversity of thought, ideas, perspectives, and values.