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Pro-Equity Anti-Racism (PEAR) Initiative WADOC

January 18, 2023

By DOC Communications Department of Corrections

Transcripts available in: Russian, Somalian, Spanish, Tagalog, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese

Since Secretary Cheryl Strange joined the Department of Corrections in 2021, one of her top priorities has been developing a human-centered organization that is fair, just, equitable, inclusive and embraces diversity.

The Department of Corrections (DOC) is making progress in promoting a more diverse and inclusive environment, for both staff and for those in our custody and care – through establishing programs like Amend, hiring an Equity Diversity Inclusion & Respect Director, implementing a Safety Culture initiative and partnering with Tulalip Tribes to benefit Indigenous people.

But we know there is more work to be done, which is why we are excited to share DOC’s first Pro-Equity Anti-Racism (PEAR) Strategic Plan (pdf) in response to Gov. Inslee’s Executive Order (EO) 22-04 (pdf).

"DOC is dedicated to doing our part to create a PEAR ecosystem in Washington," says Secretary Cheryl Strange. "We want to make this a great state for everyone to work, live and do business. We are committed to operating a safe and humane corrections system and partnering with others to transform lives for a better Washington."

DOC has established a PEAR team made up of staff at all levels, as well as external customers and partners. Our PEAR plan makes significant investments in three areas:

  • Evaluating equity and fairness in the administration of infractions and sanctions of incarcerated individuals
  • Evaluating equity and fairness in the classification of incarcerated individuals
  • Evaluating equity and inclusion in staff representation

Achieving our PEAR goals will bring us into greater alignment with our Strategic Anchors. Each of us is accountable for doing pro-equity, anti-racism work.

We’re excited about what is to come over the next few years, and to work with our PEAR team, our partners in state government and our stakeholders as we foster a PEAR culture in Washington.

Please take a few moments of your time to watch the video (youtube) to learn more about our efforts with the PEAR initiative.