Congresswoman Lee Statement on Passage of Diversity and Inclusion Amendment
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee’s amendment to address unconscious bias in hiring and managing Congressional staff passed the Appropriations Committee.
This amendment directs the Chief Administrative Officer to issue a report addressing the ways in which Members and staff with hiring and management responsibilities can be given the tools to combat unconscious bias.
“The staff who work in the halls of Congress should reflect the diversity of America – in every respect. However, due to a variety of factors including unconscious bias, that is not the case. A 2015 report found that people of color make up only 7.1% of top Senate staffers, and the situation in the House is similarly troubling. That’s why I’m glad that my amendment to address unconscious bias in hiring and management practices passed as the first step in improving diversity and inclusion on the Hill.”
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