OCIO Embracing Diversity: A Celebration of Cultures through Food

At the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO), diversity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s the vibrant tapestry that enriches our everyday work environment.  On March 27, 2024, Executive Director, Avery Q. Muse, Sr. and OCIO’s Office of Operations (Ops) organized a special event centered around diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) where colleagues from various ethnic backgrounds came together to share a piece of their culture through food.  What ensued was not just a culinary extravaganza but a celebration of unity and understanding.

The event was a feast for the senses!  Tables were adorned with dishes representing cuisines from around the world, each dish telling a story of heritage, tradition, and family recipes passed down through generations.  A sampling of our menu for the day included:  Irish stew, Guyanese fried rice, Papa a la Huancaina, black eye peas with oxtails, chicken kabab with Indian bread, samosas, Mediterranean salad, coconut rice with red beans, curry goat, banana pudding, sweet potato pie, and Scottish cookies, just to name a few.

Beyond the delicious food, the real magic happened as colleagues gathered around to share stories, laughter, and experiences.  It was a space where differences were celebrated, where curiosity sparked conversations, and where stereotypes were shattered by the power of firsthand experience.  When asked about his experience, Lead IT Specialist Antwan Lucas said, “The event created the ideal environment for growth and collaboration.”

Through this event, we reaffirmed our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where every voice is valued, and every culture is respected.  It was a reminder that diversity isn’t just about numbers or statistics; it’s about embracing the richness of human experience in all its forms.  Acting Chief Information Officer (CIO) Jennifer C. Wendel noted, “Prioritizing DEIA in the workplace helps OCIO attract and retain talent.  More than ever, prospective employees want to work for organizations that share the same core values.  Focusing on DEIA allows employees to be comfortable being themselves, leading to more creative and innovative ideas.”

As we savored each bite and exchanged stories, we were reminded of the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and appreciated.  This event was not just a one-time affair but a catalyst for ongoing dialogue and action, as we continue to strive towards a workplace where diversity, inclusion, and equity are not just ideals but lived realities.

In the end, the event was not just about the food, but about the connections forged, the barriers broken, and the bonds strengthened.  It was a testament to the power of diversity to unite us, to expand our horizons, and to make our workplace truly a home away from home.

A special thanks to Supervisory IT Project Manager Yolanda Reid for her leadership in organizing and to everyone who contributed a dish, assisted with setting up and or played a part with this fruitful event.  And thanks to Assistant Secretary for Administration Cheryl R. Campbell, Acting CIO Jennifer C. Wendel, and Acting Deputy CIO La Monte R. Yarborough, for joining the celebration and whose steadfast leadership continues to foster an environment of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility for all.