Alabama Civil Rights Committee

Ben Malone, State Conservationist
Deputy EEO Officer
Phone: 334-887-4500
E-mail:  ben.malone@usda.gov

The Alabama Civil Rights Advisory Committee (CRAC) implements the requirements of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which created the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and prohibited discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin. Executive Order 11478 stated that EEO is an integral part of every aspect of the Federal Government's personnel policy. The Committee also has certain responsibilities under Title VI - Program Delivery.

The CRAC is responsible to the Deputy Equal Opportunity Officer (State Conservationist). The committee serves the following functions:

As an advisory body to the State Conservationist to promote and assist in meaningful and effective affirmative action consistent with the goals and objectives set forth by management.

Provides feedback on the performance of the equal opportunity, workforce diversity, and civil rights program, identifies areas of weakness, and makes recommendations for improvements to other NRCS officials in the State of Alabama.

Identifies emerging areas needing special attention by the State Conservationist and other NRCS officials in the state of Alabama.

This committee will support and promote the Plan of Operations for equal opportunity, workforce diversity, and civil rights.

The committee will make recommendations to the State Conservationist regarding policies, practices, and procedures that adversely affect the achievement of equal opportunity, workforce diversity, and civil rights goals and objectives.

Make recommendations to the State Conservationist to see that all minority groups are represented in the workforce. Outreach efforts will be made to assure that objectives are reached.

There are eighteen representatives on the Committee: eight Special Emphasis Program Managers, two representatives from each administrative area, and two from the state office. Members are active in field office reviews, area meetings, training, and discussion groups.

Meeting Dates - The CRAC meets quarterly during the 1st month of each quarter. Exact locations to be determined at a later.  At least once a year the meeting is held as a teleconference. Contact your representative if you have questions.