About the Office of Civil Rights

The Office of Civil Rights is the focal point for all civil rights, equal opportunity programs, and affirmative employment functions in the Department of the Interior.

Our Mission

To develop and enforce civil rights and equal opportunity programs pursuant to existing laws, Executive Orders and regulations and to ensure equal opportunity for all Departmental employees and Federally assisted programs by the Department.

Our Vision

The Department's workforce is reflective of the nation at all levels and in all occupations; and the Department is a workplace where the quality of work life is valued and there is an environment open and accepting of individual differences and where all employees are encouraged to maximize their potential and to exhibit a commitment to provide quality service to customers.

What is Civil Rights?

No person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, age or disability be subjected to unlawful discrimination under any program or activity conducted by or which receives Federal financial assistance from the Department of the Interior. Discrimination includes: denial of services, aids, or benefits, provision of different service or in a different manner, and segregation or separate treatment. In addition, sex discrimination is prohibited in Federally assisted educational programs.