The mission of the Office of Relevancy, Diversity, and Inclusion (RDI) is to champion for an organizational culture that is increasingly inclusive and participatory, which values the diverse ideas, experience and background of every individual, and empowers an innovative, flexible and resilient NPS to engage the opportunities and challenges of the future. The Office of RDI works collaboratively with NPS stakeholders to embed these best practices into the organization and provide the support needed to ensure their implementation. The National Park Service defines relevancy, diversity, and inclusion as:

  • Relevancy is achieved when all Americans are able to establish a personal connection to the National Park Service parks and programs and find meaning and value in the mission of the National Park Service. 
  • Diversity represents the practice of actively incorporating people of different backgrounds, perspectives, thoughts and beliefs throughout the organization to ensure that NPS is advantaged by the best thinking possible. Diversity represents the wide range of visible and invisible differences and similarities that make each of us unique. 
  • Inclusion is the practice of intentionally building a culture that is flexible, values diverse ideas, and embraces the meaningful participation of all.

a row of people seated in chairs
Employee Resource Groups

Over 1,000 employees participate in NPS ERGs.

New facilitators at the Allies for Inclusion facilitator training
Allies for Inclusion

Allies facilitators have hosted over 120 dialogues since 2016.

Park ranger giving a talk to visitors
Yeah, we're beautiful...

Watch this new video on what makes the NPS so special

Last updated: March 11, 2021