About the Diversity Advisory Committee (DAC)

Chartered in 2015, the DCYF Diversity Advisory Committee (DAC) is made up of members at all levels of the agency and community partners to provide advisory and guidance as it strives to be a model employer and leader within state government by leveraging diversity and fostering inclusion to deliver the best public service to the state’s children, youth, families, and care provider community.

In close partnership with the DCYF Director and the state’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Opportunity (ODEO), the DAC focuses on two main areas of work:

Diversity and inclusion, particularly as it relates to recruitment, hiring and promotion of staff; and
Cultural competence, including supporting the education, awareness and innovation needed to provide great service to our families.

The DAC is open to all members of our staff and, by invitation, to community partners. The committee meets monthly and holds subcommittee meetings as needed.

DCYF Diversity Vision Statement

The Department's Diversity Vision Statement is called “When Diversity Is a Strength.” The statement does two things: it provides some aspirational language around how DCYF and its stakeholders would function if we acted with cultural competency and humility; and it provides an outline of what changes are needed. The statement was completed in March 2019 and the Department is working to formulate action steps so that the agency can start living these ideals.

Diversity Vision Statement

DCYF Affirmative Action Plan

DCYF Affirmative Action Plan - July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023

Anyone interested in joining the committee should reach out to a member of the DAC leadership:

DAC Leadership Team

Silas Copeland

silas.copeland@dcyf.ri.gov

401-256-3435

Adam Williams

adam.williams@dcyf.ri.gov

Natasha House

natasha.house@dcyf.ri.gov

401-528-3843