SECNAV urges leaders to continue efforts to foster culture of belonging at DEI Summit

FromOfficeoftheSecretaryoftheNavy

Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Carlos Del Toro hosted a Department of the Navy (DON) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Summit, June 22, with senior DON, Navy,andMarineCorpsleaders

The goal of the summit was to discuss opportunities and identify action items to promote DEI initiatives and establish a renewed focus on data and evidence-based decision-making

“In order to maintain our strategic edge, theNavyandMarineCorpsteammustoperationalize innovative and cohesive initiatives, rooted in DEI’s goals,” said Secretary Del Toro “We, as a Department, must be deliberateandcontinuetocreateacultureof inclusivity,whereeveryperson,regardlessof theirbackground,feelswelcomeandvalued with an opportunity to succeed. If not, we willfailtoseethepotentialofourpeople.”

Throughout the day, the DON DEI Program Office facilitated discussions about DEI initiatives and progress within theDepartment.Presentersfocusedonhow DEIinfluencescohesionwithintheDepart- ment and the role leaders play in those efforts Attendeesalsodiscussedhowinnovation is enhanced by diversity, emphasizingdiversity’sconnectiontoamissionready force Additionally, leaders discussed how diversity enhances innovation and creativity is highest during collaboration. Frans Johansson, American entrepreneur and authorwasthekeynotespeaker.

During thesummit,SECNAVchallenged allleaders,ateverylevel,toassesswherethe DON theNavy andtheMarineCorpsarein achieving a more welcoming and inclusive environment, as well as identifying areas wherewecancontinuetoimprove

“This was a valuable opportunity for our Department of the Navy senior leaders to haveadatadrivendiscussionofDEImatters from a readiness and innovation perspective,” said Franklin Parker, Assistant SecretaryoftheNavyforManpowerandReserve Affairs.

Off-site attendees included the Assistant SecretariesoftheNavy,Commandantofthe MarineCorps,theMasterChiefPettyOfficer of the Navy, and the Sergeant Major of the MarineCorps