Diversity in Alaska's National Parks

We want to build a workforce that is representative of the American people and work sites that are highly effective due to the contributions of the variety of American people that we employ. We want the National Park Service to continue to be a strong organization into the 21st century despite the changing demographics of this country.

We must continue to work toward creating an environment where workforce diversity is understood, valued and embraced, where there is an absence of bias, and where the mission is achieved through collaboration and teamwork. We must continue to move vigorously toward a workforce that reflects the diversity of American society at large and employs the best talents of all groups. This is good business for America and it is good business for the National Park Service.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender

In Alaska alone, the NPS serves over 2.5 million visitors to the Alaska parks each year, and employs 1,000 employees at the peak period. The NPS strives to ensure our workforce demographics are a mirror image of the country’s population we serve.

Director‘s Order 16B, Diversity in the National Park Service, states in part " ...the term "diversity" is used broadly to refer to many demographic variables such as race, religion, color, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, age, education, geographic origin, and skill characteristics. The National Park Service recognizes that America‘s diversity has given this country its unique strength, resilience and richness... "

To accomplish an inclusive diverse, highly skilled, motivated and effective workforce requires focusing recruitment efforts on hiring people with the right skills, at the right place, at the right time, regardless of the demographic variable. However, in order to develop and retain a world class workforce, we must recognize the value of diversity. At the Alaska Region we‘re focused on challenging stereotypes and increasing the understanding of the dynamics of individual differences, which is integral to creating an environment that maximizes the potential of a diverse group of people.

Last updated: March 29, 2016