Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B):
Welcome to the Colorado Department of Corrections, Diversity , Equity, Inclusion and Belonging webpage.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) are fundamental values that guide the mission and vision of the Colorado Department of Corrections. Our dedication to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging is much more than just a statement, but rather a commitment—one that we uphold through our agency policies, training and educational opportunities as well as through everyday interactions, We recognize the importance of embracing and encouraging diversity, promoting equity and fairness, and fostering a culture of belonging.
We are striving to create a culture where every individual, regardless of their background, identity, or perspective, feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents and experiences. By actively engaging in ongoing dialogue, education, and action, we strive to dismantle barriers, challenge biases, and cultivate a community where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is a reality for all.
The G.R.A.A.C.E. Alliance 
In 2020, we took an important step toward enhancing DEI (B) and established the Gender, Race, Ability, Awareness, Culture, Equity (G.R.A.A.C.E) Alliance. The G.R.A.A.C.E Alliance is comprised of staff, incarcerated individuals, formerly incarcerated individuals, external stakeholders and advocates and draws upon these diverse perspectives to enhance DEI (B) within the department.
The GRAACE Alliance Mission is: “To educate, inform and inspire diversity, equity, equality and inclusion in order to build a stronger and more effective culture by examining our policies and practices and fostering an environment of mutual respect and mindfulness to create safer facilities, work environments and communities.”
We are proud of our collective progress and are excited about upcoming projects and initiatives, designed to weave Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging into the framework of the Colorado Department of Corrections!
Projects and Initiatives:
The fundamental values of DEI-B touch every aspect of the department's mission, goals, and vision. This is reflected in our strategic plan.
A Message from the DEI-B Coordinator:
Hello! I am so excited to introduce myself to you as the Colorado Department of Corrections Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) coordinator! My commitment to DEI issues has been a long standing passion of mine throughout my professional career and I look forward to working with employees, incarcerated individuals and community members to enhance DEI-B efforts within the CDOC.
-Christina Ortiz-Marquez,
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Coordinator
Contact Us:
We invite you to reach out to DEI-B Coordinator Christina Oritz-Marquez with any questions or suggestions about DEI-B by email at: christina.ortiz-marquez@state.co.us
To contact the GRAACE Alliance, please email: doc_graace_alliance@state.co.us