Welcome In: A New Opportunity for California Businesses to Build Inclusive Workplaces
Tahoe Chamber | April 12, 2025 | Chamber News
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The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) has launched an exciting initiative that every California business should know about. It’s called Welcome In, and it’s designed to support business owners in creating safe, inclusive, and discrimination-free environments for both their customers and staff.
At Tahoe Chamber, we’re proud to share this resource with our clients and community partners—because when businesses lead with equity, everyone benefits.
What Is “Welcome In”?
Welcome In is a partnership program between the California Civil Rights Department and local businesses across the state. It offers free training, technical assistance, and public recognition for businesses that commit to cultivating inclusive environments.
Through the program, business owners and key staff receive expert training on:
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How California’s anti-discrimination laws apply to businesses
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How and when to step in when a customer harasses another
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How to identify, prevent, and report hate-related incidents
What Do Businesses Receive?
Participating businesses gain access to:
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Free CRD training and support
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An HR model employee policy to set expectations and protocols
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Ongoing technical assistance from real people—not automated systems
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Public recognition from the state of California for completing the program
“This is an incredible addition to the resources available to California-based businesses to develop Human Resources protocols with support from the state,” said Cristi Creegan, CEO of the Tahoe Chamber. “This program is staffed by actual people, who will answer the phone and discuss your questions and concerns in a personal way.”
How to Get Involved
Want to take advantage of this free, state-supported program? It’s easy to get started:
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📝 Fill out the Welcome In Application
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📬 Download the Welcome In Postcard – A quick summary of program benefits
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📄 Explore the Welcome In Flyer – For more details on the program
You can also visit www.calcivilrights.ca.gov for more information.
📞 Contact the Program Directly
Fernando Ponce
Outreach & Education Manager
California Civil Rights Department
📱 (916) 579-4690
Inclusive business practices aren’t just the right thing to do—they’re good for your team, your customers, and your community. Join the Welcome In movement and take the first step toward a more welcoming California.