Diversity
The Iowa National Guard Diversity and Inclusion initiatives promote a cultural climate, which allows people to maximize their potential by embracing each other’s holistic characteristics. Diversity is not a program or policy – it is a state of being. It sparks innovation, incorporates fresh approaches, and produces well-rounded perspectives in problem solving that lets us identify ways of performing duties entrusted to us by our government and fellow citizens.

The Iowa National Guard has established a Joint Diversity Executive Council (JDEC), comprised of senior leaders appointed by the Adjutant General, to measure progress of the Iowa National Guard’s Diversity Strategic Plan.  The JDEC meets on a quarterly basis to discuss Diversity and Inclusion efforts internal and external to the Iowa National Guard.

If you are interested in utilizing any of the following programs or have questions, please contact

the Equity and Inclusion Office.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
The Iowa National Guard supports ADR to the maximum extent practicable and at the earliest possible stage to prevent, minimize, and resolve disputes between or among the agency and its employees and other parties. ADR helps to achieve mutually acceptable and cost-effective outcomes and to accomplish business efficiently, economically, and productively.  Participation in the ADR process is voluntary and information shared during the proceeding is confidential. 

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
The Iowa National Guard recognizes that conditions such as emotional duress and stress impact morale and productivity in the workplace. The goal of the EAP is to increase employee efficiency and productivity, by connecting employees to assistive programs, rehabilitation, education, and referral services.

The EAP coordinator works in a consultative role with managers and supervisors to help address employee and organizational challenges and needs.  Military OneSource services are private and provided by the Department of Defense at no cost to service members. The EAP Coordinator maintains a list of resources and providers that are available throughout the state. Information will be provided to an employee upon request. Resources may be utilized not only when job performance is deficient but for personal situations unrelated to work as well.

Special Emphasis Program (SEP)

The Special Emphasis Programs were established as part of the overall affirmative employment program. Within the concept of the EEO program and the Federal Merit System, the programs emphasize the enhancement of employment and advancement opportunities for minorities, women, and persons with disabilities. The term “Special Emphasis Programs,” refers specifically to employment related programs which focus special attention on groups that are conspicuously absent or underrepresented in a specific occupational category or grade level in the agency’s workforce. These programs increase diversity awareness and assist us in achieving our affirmative employment goals by:

• Identifying and evaluating potential barriers to the hiring and advancement of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities
• Identifying and publicizing opportunities for educational and career development
• Annually observing and commemorating the achievements and contributions of each group, promoting ethnic and cultural awareness

The Special Emphasis Programs include:

• Hispanic Employment Program
• Federal Women’s Program
• Black Employment Program
• Asian/Pacific American Employment Program
• American Indian/Alaskan Native Employment Program
• People with Disabilities Program
• LGBT Program

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