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State of Oregon Department of Corrections Joins as First Enterprise Member

Karen Ledford • Jun 26, 2023

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels

We are excited to announce that the State of Oregon Department of Corrections has joined The Society for Diversity as our first Enterprise Member!


The Oregon DOC houses approximately 12,000 adults in 12 state prisons and is nationally recognized among correctional agencies for providing cognitive, education, and job skills needed to become productive citizens when transitioning back to their communities. As a result of these efforts, along with many others, Oregon’s recidivism rate has decreased.

State of Oregon Department of Corrections shield

Why is DEI important to Oregon DOC and other correctional departments?

  • Equitable and just society - A system that is truly just and equitable must be one that treats all people fairly, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics. DEI can help ensure this by addressing the biases that exist within the criminal justice system and by providing opportunities for all people to participate in the system.
  • Improved outcomes for justice-involved individuals - Research shows that adults in custody (AIC) and adults on supervision (AOS) who are treated with respect and dignity are more likely to succeed in their rehabilitation efforts. DEI can help to create a more respectful and dignified environment by promoting understanding and acceptance of differences.
  • Improved safety of staff, AIC, and AOS - A diverse workforce is more resilient because it's less likely to be divided by stereotypes and prejudices. When staff, AIC, and AOS come from different backgrounds, they're more likely to understand and appreciate each other's perspectives. This can help reduce conflict and violence within the correctional system.


If you know an organization interested in Enterprise Membership, please contact Amber.


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Disclaimer: Content on this blog is authored by multiple sources. While we do make every attempt to proofread and fact-check, unless authored our staff, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of The Society for Diversity and the Institute for Diversity Certification.

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