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This chart reflects a 9% increase in overall permanent employment between April 1975 and April 1977, and reflects a 15% increase in minority employment. The most significant increases occurred in grades 5 through 8 (18%) and in grades 13 through 15 (20%). This may be attributed partly to upward mobility emphasis at lower grade levels and increased affirmative recruitment efforts at higher grade levels. Minority employment at grades 9 through 12, while not showing a decline, has not increased at the same pace, but we are optimistic that, with increased emphasis throughout the Institution in attracting minority candidates at these levels, we are approaching this problem in the proper direction. Continued success of our upward mobility efforts should also provide future potential candidates for these positions.

The major area failing to improve during the past two years was in the employment of women. While the total number of women in the workforce increased, as a percentage of the total women employment decreased from 35.1% in 1975 to 34.1% in 1977. We are encouraged, however, with the expectation that jobs that were once male oriented will attract more women candidates.

The Institution's 1977 Affirmative Plan of Action, outlining the objectives for the year, has been approved by the Civil Service Commission and distributed to Smithsonian supervisors for implementation. Our career development programs have broadened the opportunities for minority and female