Equity is foundational to OLRH’s understanding and practice of public health. Ongoing training and education can also help to build a diverse workforce that is ready to meet the unique needs and improve health outcomes of our communities, especially more marginalized communities. OLRH is also committed to building a workforce that reflects the cultural, racial, and linguistic diversity of our communities and is guided by OLRH's Strategic Plan which places health and racial equity at the center of our work.
To improve the quality of services, reduce health disparities, and achieve health equity, local public health staff is strongly encouraged to engage in ongoing professional development on the CLAS Standards. The CLAS (Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services) Standards are national standards that were developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health in 2000. All agencies, organizations, and people receiving funding from DPH are required to adhere to CLAS Standards and complete a CLAS Self-Assessment. A key component of the CLAS Standards is to educate and train the entire public health workforce, as well as governing bodies, in culturally and linguistically appropriate policies and practices on an ongoing basis.