Inclusive America Action Center
In order for democracy to work for all of us, our policymakers must look like all of us. Join us in demanding a federal government committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Time and time again, America has proven that diversity is our nation's greatest asset. Together, we can make government as diverse as the people it serves.
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About This Action Center
The Inclusive America Action Center provides multiple pathways for citizens to help make the federal government more representative. Whether you want to serve in government yourself, volunteer your skills, elevate diverse candidates, or advocate for policy change—there's a role for you.
The Challenge: In 2018, 93% of the people running the federal government were white, and 80% were men. By 2040, the United States will be a minority-majority country. Our government should reflect the diversity of the people it serves.
Educate
Track demographic information of all appointed political positions to measure progress and hold leaders accountable.
Elevate
Develop slates of qualified diverse candidates for every relevant position to provide alternatives to the status quo.
Advocate
Support policies that increase diversity, equity, and inclusion in the public sector through legislation and pledges.
Why This Matters
Inclusive America believes that "personnel is policy." When policymakers reflect the experiences and backgrounds of all communities, the policies they create are more likely to serve everyone. Excluding talent means limiting impact and innovation.
Ways to Take Action
Serve in Government
Make the move to serve the American people. Explore government job boards and apply for positions where you can make a difference.
Find Jobs →Volunteer or Intern
Advance the mission to make government reflective of our nation's rich tapestry. Roles include research, advocacy, social media, and more.
See Opportunities →Elevate Candidates
Help identify and promote qualified diverse candidates for appointed positions. As America becomes more diverse, so do our best people.
Learn More →Support the Pledge
Urge your Senators to take the Pledge for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion—committing to meaningful actions for a more inclusive government.
View Pledge →Support the PLUM Act
Advocate for transparency in political appointments. The PLUM Act modernizes reporting on senior government leaders.
Learn More →Donate
Your gift will help make government more representative and therefore more effective. All Americans need equal chances to serve our country.
Donate →Volunteer Opportunities
Inclusive America is nearly 100% volunteer-powered. Current and past volunteers have been crucial in advancing the goal of a more representative government. Here are the roles available:
No matter your skills, you can contribute. Inclusive America works with Morrison and Foerster LLP and other partners to submit FOIA requests and categorize nearly 30,000 political appointees based on seven traits: age, gender, race, sexual orientation, disability, religion, and veteran status.
The Pledge for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The Pledge for Diversity commits the President and all United States Senators to four meaningful actions:
1️⃣ Chief Diversity Officer
Appoint a national Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
2️⃣ Data Transparency
Support transparency of demographic data in recruitment, promotion, and retention
3️⃣ Diverse Candidates
Commit to interviewing diverse candidates for all appointed positions
4️⃣ Accountability
Establish mechanisms to track and report progress toward parity
The Pledge has been endorsed by a bipartisan coalition of over 30 civil society organizations and supported by leaders including former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and former Secretary of Agriculture Ann Veneman.
America's Demographics: The Goal of Parity
The Federal Government must, by law, "endeavor to achieve a work force from all segments of society" (5 U.S.C. 2301). Here's what America looks like today:
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 50.8% |
| Male | 48.6% |
| White | 60.1% |
| Non-White | 39.3% |
| Latina/o/x/Hispanic | 18.5% |
| Black/African American | 13.4% |
| Asian American and Pacific Islander | 6.1% |
| People with Disabilities | 18.6% |
| Veterans | 5.6% |
Data from U.S. Census, Gallup, Pew Trust, Williams Institute, and CDC
Breaking Glass Ceilings
Several cabinet positions have never been held by women, including Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and Secretary of the Treasury. Inclusive America targets these positions to ensure a level playing field is established.
About Inclusive America
Inclusive America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit on a mission to make the government of the United States as diverse as the people it represents.
📅 Founded
2018 by Mark Hanis, Jana Nelson, and Kennette Banks
📍 Location
Washington, D.C.
⚖️ Legal Status
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
👥 Structure
Nearly 100% volunteer-powered
Leadership Team:
- Mark Hanis — Co-Founder. Serial social entrepreneur who helped launch United to End Genocide, Organ Alliance, and Beeck Center for Social Impact and Innovation at Georgetown University.
- Kennette Banks — Co-Founder. Strategy and operations expert with extensive experience in educational social impact and youth development.
- Daniel Torres Balauro — Community advocate with background in environmental justice activism and early-stage social impact investing.
Key Accomplishments:
- Supported passage of the PLUM Act (signed by President Biden), modernizing transparency of political appointments
- Launched the Pledge for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion campaign
- Partnered with Morrison and Foerster LLP to track demographics of nearly 30,000 political appointees
- Built a coalition of 30+ civil society organizations supporting government diversity initiatives
