Employee Resource Groups

Yosemite’s DEIA Council works to empower employees to create change through Employee Resource Groups. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are voluntary, membership-based, employee-led affinity groups that celebrate employees’ identities and values. These groups serve as a resource for members and organizations by fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace aligned with organizational mission, values, goals, and business practices.

ERGs are sponsored by the NPS, but all park partners and community members are also welcome and encouraged to join.

To join, email yose_dei@nps.gov

*Photo of first* BIPOC ERG Meet-Up on July 2019

Black, INdigenous & People of Color (BIPOC)

This employee resource group works to enhance the visibility of BIPOC issues and achievements at Yosemite. All employees (seasonal/permanent/VIPs/Partners) are welcome to join, regardless of ethnic and racial identity.

In 2022, the BIPOC ERG hosted most for their events during peak season. They organized a mixer, BBQ, and other events. Email yose_dei@nps.gov to join the ERG’s group chat and roster, and to be updated on this season’s events.

LGBTQ+

This group works to increase the visibility of the LGBTQ+ people in Yosemite, while also supporting LGBTQ+ employees, community members, and visitors.

In the past, this group has been responsible for organizing Yosemite’s week-long Pride celebration, which includes a Valley Pride March, stewardship projects, group hikes, karaoke nights, and more. They are also working on creating resource for Yosemite’s LGBTQ+ community, and organizing additional events. To be added to this group’s roster and updated on upcoming events, email yose_dei@nps.gov.

WOmEn

The Women’s group works to further one another’s personal and professional growth through building an inclusive culture and providing opportunities to talk about gender issues facing Yosemite’ community. All are welcome!

In 2022, the Women’s ERG hosted numerous virtual Brown Bag Lunches. These events created a space for Yosemite employees from near and far to connect over their lunch break and chat about topics related to wellness. To be added to this ERG’s group chat and roster, and to be updated on upcoming events, email yose_dei@nps.gov.

Other Resource Groups

Two other resource groups exist within the DEIA Council, both created with the purpose of supporting ERG activities and advancing DEIA at Yosemite. For more information or to join, email yose_dei@nps.gov.

Wellness Coalition

Yosemite’s Wellness Resource Group is a coalition of community members from the National Park Service, the Yosemite Conservancy, and Yosemite Hospitality. The Coronavirus pandemic has taken a particular toll on our small community, and many of us are struggling with feelings of stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. Our group aims to support the Yosemite community during this time of change by providing resources and activities that promote connection, health, and wellness. Stay tuned for new articles, artwork, and events like yoga, meditation workshops, nature walks, and more!

Get Wellness Resources from the Coalition Newsletter

Allies for Inclusion

Allies for Inclusion is a facilitated dialogue program that engages Park employees in discussions on critical topics and issues for creating a more diverse, inclusive, equitable, and accessible organization. Creating an internal conversation on DEIA is critical for the success of the National Park Service to sustain itself as a valued part of American society. Yosemite Park employees have the opportunity to be trained as facilitators and work together in small cohorts to create dialogue opportunities for their parks, programs, and offices.

For access to the Common Learning Portal resources contact: yose_dei@nps.gov

Would you like to be trained as an Allies for Inclusion facilitator? To request a spot in a virtual training, email lark_weller@nps.gov

Allies for inclusion common learning portal

Learn more about allies

We need your leadership!

Many of our employee resource groups are missing leads. ERG leadership positions can have varying levels of responsibility, and any help is welcome! If you would like to help out with one of the ERGs, please email yose_dei@nps.gov!

NPS Office of Relevancy, Diversity, and Inclusion

The NPS Office of Relevancy, Diversity, and Inclusion (RDI) is working on projects similar to those of the DEIA Council. Check out their website for more information on their work.

RDI Office website

The Office of RDI is also the home of many national ERGs. In an effort to include NPS employees on a national scale, these groups operate virtually, having most meetings and events over video calls. Check out the national ERGs here:

National ERG info