Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

The mission of the MDH Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (ODEIB) is to lead development of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles and practices and cultivate a sense of belonging for all employees in our agency. The office aspires to enhance workplace culture and ensure that diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging principles are seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the agency.

Internal focus

ODEIB focuses on internal capacity building, ensuring that leadership and employees are equipped to build inclusive spaces in a 21st-century workplace.  This journey is not solely organizational but also a collective and introspective endeavor for every member of the agency.

Challenges and goals

The office provides training, technical assistance, and coaching for MDH leaders and staff to develop the skills needed for inclusive leadership and creates organizational spaces that foster psychological safety, storytelling, and support collective grieving and healing. ODEIB is committed to providing education that goes beyond basic training, aiming to profoundly influence leaders and employees in their everyday roles. This approach not only celebrates diversity but also educates about systemic oppression and promotes awareness of broader changes within MDH.  

Capacity enrichment

The Health Equity and Racial Justice Capacity Enrichment Program is available to individuals and groups both within and outside of MDH who want to make a commitment to integrating greater health equity and racial justice into their work. Learn more on the Health Equity and Racial Justice Capacity Enrichment Program webpage.

Learn more

Questions? Contact us at mdh.deib@state.mn.us.