Rep. Adriano Espaillat Tackles Congressional Staff Diversity

Statement

Today, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) released the following statement to address the need for more diversity and inclusion on congressional staff following a report released this week by the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies.

"Diversity and inclusion are critical to our success in Congress and overall as a nation, yet congressional offices continue to miss the mark in hiring diverse talent seeking employment opportunities on Capitol Hill," said Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13). "I was deeply concerned following the diversity report released by the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, but not at all surprised by the lack of diversity among Hill staff.

"Within my staff, I have made a conscience effort to ensure representation throughout my New York and Washington, DC offices, including the top most senior members of my staff who are Latina and African American women, who were surveyed as part of this year's Joint Center report. Additionally, I have worked to ensure representation that takes into account race, ethnicity, gender, religion and sexual orientation.

"We know racial diversity among top House staff is an issue. In light of this year's report, I encourage my congressional colleagues, both Democrats and Republicans, to step up and lead by example in hiring diverse talent and committing to develop their professional skills within congressional and district offices to fully address the needs and interests of the diverse communities that we each represent. It's time for more action and less talk when it comes to staff diversity on the Hill. This is the only way we will truly make progress in Congress and on behalf of the constituents who sent us to Washington."

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