History and Future Vision

The commission began as an effort to give a voice to underrepresented people in Dane county, and to ensure the local government put into action the commitment of fostering diversity.

The commission under Dane County Ordinance, Chapter 15:12 (6) has established strategic priorities for diversifying the county workforce and contract compliance. The commission makes recommendations to the Dane County Board of Supervisors for ordinance amendment to implement the county’s affirmative action plan. The commission continues to develop strategic communication to effectively address concerns of the community.

Mission Statement

It is the mission of the EOC to:

• Advise the county executive and county board on way in which county government can affirmatively create equal opportunity for the diverse citizenry, including county employees.
• Strive to increase the workforce diversity of Dane county Government and maintain a diverse workforce, at all levels of the organization.
• Increase contracting with disadvantaged, minority and women business enterprises in Dane County purchasing and ensure implementation of civil rights\contract compliance with all applicable EEO/AA laws, regulations, statutes and ordinances.
• Be an effective liaison for the County Executive with Dane County’s diverse communities, to ensure their full participation in Dane County government.
• Design initiatives and support existing efforts to increase cooperation and enhance understanding among diverse populations.