Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA)

DEIA stands for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility. For the State of Illinois, these principles guide efforts to make state government more responsive to the people it serves—recognizing different backgrounds and experiences, addressing barriers to opportunity, creating a sense of belonging and making programs, services and workplaces accessible to all.

At the Illinois Department of Agriculture, DEIA means working toward an agricultural community where people across urban and rural Illinois feel valued, respected and able to participate. Through employee education, inclusive practices and community engagement, IDOA strives to advance these principles within the department and throughout Illinois agriculture.

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Our Purpose is to help bring about real change promoting:

Increased accessibility
Inclusion
Equitable treatment
Acceptance of differences, and
Opportunities for all stakeholders involved in the $9 billion agriculture industry across the state of Illinois

Our Mission is to nurture a more progressive agricultural community in Illinois that will:

Incorporate both urban and rural agricultural activities; and

Promote the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the pursuit of excellence of Illinois growers, producers, and for those seeking professional agricultural careers

Our Vision is an agricultural community that is:

Diverse
Equitable
Inclusive
In an atmosphere where all members are valued for their unique and inherent differences, in an atmosphere of mutual respect, trust, and civility

Our Objectives are to:

Define and update operations to reflect an inclusive environment within the department
Communicate initiatives and policies driven towards creating an inclusive environment within the department
Foster greater understanding of IDOA’s mission for the public
Increase general public awareness of the diversity of the agriculture industry
Strengthen the community by respecting and valuing individuals for their unique differences and inherent worth