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Civil Rights Policy Statement

For

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
 

As State Conservationist of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maine, I fully support the policy of USDA to provide equal opportunity for all persons without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political beliefs, and marital or familial status. I am fully dedicated to ensuring that all persons associated with NRCS in Maine comply with every aspect of our Nation’s Civil Rights laws and policies.

Discrimination is illegal, and there will be zero tolerance for any form of discrimination. It not only affects the work environment but also often the personal life of those involved. Unfortunately, instances of discrimination and harassment are still occurring in our agency. For this reason, it is imperative that we assure equal opportunity for our clients and respect the diversity of our employees and partners.

Our employees are our greatest asset. We must strive to create and maintain an inclusive environment in which every employee is respected, trusted, and valued regardless of differences.

Accountability is key. NRCS employees will be held accountable for doing their part to ensure that all NRCS applicants, program participants, customers, partners, and employees are provided equal access to the opportunities, programs, and services available through NRCS. Accordingly, I am counting on all managers, supervisors, and employees to demonstrate their knowledge and commitment of our Civil Rights laws, policies, and principles through a positive personal example and swift, reasonable, and credible response to identified problems.

I look forward to working with you to assure that our employees, partners, and clients find an agency and work environment that is positive, productive, and focused on natural resource conservation.


/s/  Juan C. Hernandez

JUAN C. HERNANDEZ
State Conservationist

February 2010

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