Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Executive Office of Public Safety and Security

Request for Information (RFI): FY27 EOPSS Diversity Awareness Program RFI

Development of Diversity Awareness Program Curriculum

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) is seeking information from potential vendors to assist in the development of a curriculum for a Diversity Awareness Program. This program will aim to rehabilitate individuals convicted of hate crimes, as defined in Massachusetts General Law Chapter 22C, Section 22.

Purpose of the RFI

The purpose of this RFI is to identify existing resources, trainings or curriculum designed for the rehabilitation of offenders of crimes motivated by bias as defined on Massachusetts General Law Chapter 265, Section 39. For example:

1. Rehabilitation-Oriented: Focuses on increasing awareness of diversity, promoting empathy, and reducing prejudices.

2. Delivery: Can be implemented in both in-person and virtual settings, individual and group settings.

3. Multidisciplinary Approach: Incorporates psychological concepts (e.g., understanding bias, empathy development, and emotional regulation) and historical context (e.g., the roots of systemic discrimination and the societal impacts of hate-based actions).

4. Inclusive Content: Addresses a broad spectrum of diversity, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and cultural backgrounds.

5. Evidence-Based Approaches: Utilizes best practices and proven methods in behavioral change, diversity education, and rehabilitation.

Submission Requirements

Vendors are encouraged to provide the following to assist EOPSS with this vital initiative:

1. A brief overview of your organization, including experience in diversity awareness training, criminal justice, and curriculum development.

2. Examples of similar programs or curricula you have developed or implemented.

3. Information on your approach to developing content for sensitive or challenging topics.

4. A high-level estimated timeline and budget considerations for developing the curriculum.

Optional:

5. How would your incorporate psychological components, such as exploring the origins of prejudice, understanding cognitive biases, and fostering empathy and emotional intelligence.

6. How could you include historical elements, such as the history of discrimination and its lasting impacts on marginalized communities, to provide context for understanding current social issues.

7. Any known studies, research, or established training curricula focused on behavioral learning and rehabilitation for individuals who have committed hate- or bias-motivated offenses?

Note: The curriculum should be specifically designed for online or virtual participation.

Response Deadline

Deadline Date:

Responses must be submitted by August 28, 2026 at 4P.M. electronically via COMMBUYS.

Bidders should contact the Commbuys Help Desk for technical assistance if needed. The Commbuys Help Desk can be reached at OSDHelpDesk@mass.gov or by phone during normal business hours (8AM – 5PM Monday – Friday) at (888)627-8283 or (617) 720-3197.

This RFI is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a commitment by EOPSS to procure services or solutions. Based on the information received, EOPSS may issue a Request for Quote (RFQ) at a later date.

Supplier Diversity Statement:

When selecting contractors and placing orders, EOPSS shall utilize diverse and small business purchasing program to the extent possible based on contract terms, SDO and departmental policies, laws, and regulations. Additionally, departments shall make a preference for contractors with higher SDP commitments and/or performance whenever such information is available (or is requested from contractors by the department) and the preference is feasible.

mailto:OSDHelpDesk@mass.gov