First-ever Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office opens at EAFB

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — The Air Force’s first-ever Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office just stood up here in January.

The new office combines Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Employment and the Diversity and Inclusion offices.

The DEI office is overseen by a single leader aligned directly under the 96th Test Wing commander.   The move provides the offices a closer working relationship to better execute the mission of diversity management.

“The offices can now be proactive and reactive under one roof giving us the ability to synergize our efforts,” said Cecil Williams, the new unit’s director.  “This change will allow us to break down barriers, advance equity and help increase inclusion to the underserved community.”

The DEI office’s mission is to ensure a culture of inclusion, recruiting, developing and retaining a high quality, diverse Total Force. The office will continue to address the strategic impact of diversity, inclusion, and equity for all civilians, military service members of Team Eglin and their families

Policies and programs will continue to be developed and enacted to provide for equal employment opportunity and treatment. The policies provide for advocacy and equitable treatment for all members based on their identity, race, color, sex, national origin, religion, or sexual orientation.

“In the future, we will help people to understand their unconscious biases, reduce discrimination complaints and increase minority hiring,” said Williams. “Experiencing the history of diversity at Eglin for the past 29 years, it means a lot to see that this is the first base to open the DE office, pursuing equity for all.”