The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) has unveiled its 2016−2017 Strategic Plan, which will guide the Department in working toward its vision over the next three to five years.

One of the most important goals of the DFEH is to expand access to information about the public’s rights and responsibilities. The Department intends to (1) increase communications and outreach activities to communities in need of information; (2) make the Department’s website and other resources more user- friendly; and (3) develop additional information and educational materials on “hot” topics for business owners. The Strategic Plan also includes an analysis of the kinds of discrimination that are occurring among various populations and industries in order to address the violations and enhance enforcement.

In addition, the DFEH will continue to partner with federal agencies and other state departments to leverage its educational and enforcement efforts. Building stronger alliances with entities such as the EEOC, HUD, Cal/Vet, EDD and other California enforcement entities and community organizations will be pivotal in reaching the DFEH’s goals. The Department also will take action to prevent and combat discrimination and hate violence in 2017 by:

•   Proactively pursuing cases for investigation and litigation based on statistical information suggesting a high likelihood that discrimination is taking place
•   Identifying patterns of discrimination within various industries, jobs and regions, and undertaking targeted enforcement efforts to address areas of concern
•   Using the Department of Justice’s resources to train DFEH staff
•   Promoting the public’s awareness of the DFEH’s community conciliation function.