102
102
0
Why do we continue to have Special Observances? After all, with open service for all, haven’t we mastered Diversity and Inclusion by now?
Good question. And the answer is…no; not by a lot. President Truman integrated the armed forces in 1948. 81 years later, African-Americans still suffer from discrimination and bigotry throughout society, and yes, even within our military. Women have been part of America’s military tradition since 1775, but not always openly. During the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, they participated in ancillary roles, and when in combat, they did so disguised as men. The first woman to enlist, as herself, was not until 1917. There were no women in the academies until 1976! And women were not part of combat units until 2016; prior to that year, they had served in combat as war does not stay within boundaries too well. They distinguished their efforts with Honor, and enthusiasm.
In the realm of LGBTQ+, it has been even more complicated. While these individuals have served throughout our history, it has only recently been openly. Prior to President Clinton and the introduction of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, discovery of one’s homosexuality or other queerness was grounds for immediate discharge. With DADT, one could serve, as long as no one ever found out. For those who have not had to hide major parts of their life else face loss of their livelihoods do not know the fear which enveloped these Servicemembers. At any moment, one’s career could come to a crashing end. In 2010, DADT ended and open service was welcomed for the LGB.
That is not a typo. LGB could openly serve, but still the transgender individuals could not. The fear continued. 30 June 2016, Secretary of Defense Ash Carter opened service to transgender individuals. And while the next administration reversed course, in 2021, President Biden restored open service.
So, we are good! Laws, regulations, policies and orders have brought all of us into service for our country, regardless of race (1948), being female (2016), sexual orientation (2010), and gender identity (2021). Yet, Servicemembers are still harassed. Discrimination occurs regularly. Sexual harassment and sexual assault are shockingly not rarities, but commonly shared histories amongst our ranks. Open bigotry is less often found, yet a visit to social media will quickly reveal the dark bigotry alive and well.
These observances, then, are still essential. More so, they must not be “check-the-box” activities. Too, they should not be events where your absence is noteworthy; attendance may not be mandatory, but you had better be there. We often celebrate distinctions of our individual groups, and slowly more often, we utilize these opportunities to learn about those to our left and right in America’s formations.
Any self-respecting infantry Soldier will tell you that without them, no one will win a war. True, but it is the diversity in our job fields that enables that Soldier to fight and win. Cooks, supply, medics, intelligence gatherers, and clerks may not be the image of the combat Soldier, yet without them, that Soldier will soon be hungry, out of bullets, possibly wounded, unsure of where the enemy is or how strong and worse – not being correctly paid! It takes an Army to be an Army. And an Air Force to parachute them (Airborne!), bomb the enemy, and bring more supplies. The Navy, and with them, our beloved Marines, achieve many of those results on the world’s oceans.
Thus, since we recognize that we need all these parts to make an overwhelmingly strong whole, that we need that Diversity, and that all are important and play a role, why is it so difficult to recognize that is true within our ranks? As our skills, intelligence, and talents are spread throughout the services, so are they spread throughout our individuals. Men bring their strengths and talents, as do women, persons of color, LGBTQ, and our whole spectrum. We are all valuable.
Diversity is our force multiplier. Together, we are successful. Our nation protects and defends our Constitution by living the freedoms enshrined within that very document.
Out of many, one.
Good question. And the answer is…no; not by a lot. President Truman integrated the armed forces in 1948. 81 years later, African-Americans still suffer from discrimination and bigotry throughout society, and yes, even within our military. Women have been part of America’s military tradition since 1775, but not always openly. During the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, they participated in ancillary roles, and when in combat, they did so disguised as men. The first woman to enlist, as herself, was not until 1917. There were no women in the academies until 1976! And women were not part of combat units until 2016; prior to that year, they had served in combat as war does not stay within boundaries too well. They distinguished their efforts with Honor, and enthusiasm.
In the realm of LGBTQ+, it has been even more complicated. While these individuals have served throughout our history, it has only recently been openly. Prior to President Clinton and the introduction of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, discovery of one’s homosexuality or other queerness was grounds for immediate discharge. With DADT, one could serve, as long as no one ever found out. For those who have not had to hide major parts of their life else face loss of their livelihoods do not know the fear which enveloped these Servicemembers. At any moment, one’s career could come to a crashing end. In 2010, DADT ended and open service was welcomed for the LGB.
That is not a typo. LGB could openly serve, but still the transgender individuals could not. The fear continued. 30 June 2016, Secretary of Defense Ash Carter opened service to transgender individuals. And while the next administration reversed course, in 2021, President Biden restored open service.
So, we are good! Laws, regulations, policies and orders have brought all of us into service for our country, regardless of race (1948), being female (2016), sexual orientation (2010), and gender identity (2021). Yet, Servicemembers are still harassed. Discrimination occurs regularly. Sexual harassment and sexual assault are shockingly not rarities, but commonly shared histories amongst our ranks. Open bigotry is less often found, yet a visit to social media will quickly reveal the dark bigotry alive and well.
These observances, then, are still essential. More so, they must not be “check-the-box” activities. Too, they should not be events where your absence is noteworthy; attendance may not be mandatory, but you had better be there. We often celebrate distinctions of our individual groups, and slowly more often, we utilize these opportunities to learn about those to our left and right in America’s formations.
Any self-respecting infantry Soldier will tell you that without them, no one will win a war. True, but it is the diversity in our job fields that enables that Soldier to fight and win. Cooks, supply, medics, intelligence gatherers, and clerks may not be the image of the combat Soldier, yet without them, that Soldier will soon be hungry, out of bullets, possibly wounded, unsure of where the enemy is or how strong and worse – not being correctly paid! It takes an Army to be an Army. And an Air Force to parachute them (Airborne!), bomb the enemy, and bring more supplies. The Navy, and with them, our beloved Marines, achieve many of those results on the world’s oceans.
Thus, since we recognize that we need all these parts to make an overwhelmingly strong whole, that we need that Diversity, and that all are important and play a role, why is it so difficult to recognize that is true within our ranks? As our skills, intelligence, and talents are spread throughout the services, so are they spread throughout our individuals. Men bring their strengths and talents, as do women, persons of color, LGBTQ, and our whole spectrum. We are all valuable.
Diversity is our force multiplier. Together, we are successful. Our nation protects and defends our Constitution by living the freedoms enshrined within that very document.
Out of many, one.
LGBTQ+
Diversity
Celebration
Veterans Affairs (VA)
Equality
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 24
0
0
0
I know my thoughts on this will not be received with the intent I am sharing. That said, here we go.
In the past, there have been many wrongs against people of color and others. Today in society, we still have wrongs being perpetrated on others. Our challenge in uniform is to try and be above that, because our mission is to protect all Americans...ones we agree with and ones we do not agree with.
I remember when the volunteer Army idea took its place. There were many people that did not like the idea, thus VOLAR, or victory over leaders and rights. Today, all these years later, the voices of dissent are few. We don't spend much time thinking about or trying to undo it. I know there are those that think a draft produces a better, overall quality for our military. Some disagree with that of course, but overall it is not a subject of major concern for those in uniform.
One of the things that I can say for sure is diiversity is important in Corporate America. Why? There are many reasons, but people who are spending their hard earned money at some organization like to see people of their own color or ethnicity, etc working, managing and helping others. No, it is not an end-all answer, but it is true. How does that relate to the US Military? You will have to decide that for yourself.
People have lots of reasons for 'feeling' the way that they do, but those feelings do not or should not translate to hard facts or actions for or against individuals. My personal beliefs are based on what the Bible says, but I had 'known' LGB people who were in E-6 and above positions, along with people of color in E-6 and above positions. (late 70's/early 80's) In the civilian world, I treated everyone alike, regardless of what cultural descriptions were associated with the individual. I can't say that I can recall a transgender person, but there could have been and I wasn't aware.
Is there anyone completely unbiased? Maybe, but not likely in our World. I had a 'gay' General Manager who moved to another state where I did not travel. About two years after he departed, I got a very nice email from him thanking me for treating him like every other person in his role. Although appreciated, isn't that what every leader/manager should strive to do on a daily basis? I did not do anything special, just trying to treat people with respect. Candidly, I am sure I failed at that at times as well, maybe more than I can remember. None of us are gifted with perfection.
It's a very delicate subject. I hope that before I die, racism will be a thing of the past. Do I think it is better than years ago? Yes, I do. Is it still there, yes it is with some people. Our military men and women have enough challenges without adding in racism and other issues, etc. I sure hope this makes a difference for some people reading this post.
Lastly, promotions are not really about the job you have done in the past, rather it is more about your ability to take on additional responsibility, be that in the US Military or Corporate America. Did I ever think that someone got a job that I wanted was 'kissing up' or whatever term you may want to use? I sure did, but you know what, when the dust settled and life moved forward, I realized that it was in my best interest, even one of those being decades later.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity of feedback...
In the past, there have been many wrongs against people of color and others. Today in society, we still have wrongs being perpetrated on others. Our challenge in uniform is to try and be above that, because our mission is to protect all Americans...ones we agree with and ones we do not agree with.
I remember when the volunteer Army idea took its place. There were many people that did not like the idea, thus VOLAR, or victory over leaders and rights. Today, all these years later, the voices of dissent are few. We don't spend much time thinking about or trying to undo it. I know there are those that think a draft produces a better, overall quality for our military. Some disagree with that of course, but overall it is not a subject of major concern for those in uniform.
One of the things that I can say for sure is diiversity is important in Corporate America. Why? There are many reasons, but people who are spending their hard earned money at some organization like to see people of their own color or ethnicity, etc working, managing and helping others. No, it is not an end-all answer, but it is true. How does that relate to the US Military? You will have to decide that for yourself.
People have lots of reasons for 'feeling' the way that they do, but those feelings do not or should not translate to hard facts or actions for or against individuals. My personal beliefs are based on what the Bible says, but I had 'known' LGB people who were in E-6 and above positions, along with people of color in E-6 and above positions. (late 70's/early 80's) In the civilian world, I treated everyone alike, regardless of what cultural descriptions were associated with the individual. I can't say that I can recall a transgender person, but there could have been and I wasn't aware.
Is there anyone completely unbiased? Maybe, but not likely in our World. I had a 'gay' General Manager who moved to another state where I did not travel. About two years after he departed, I got a very nice email from him thanking me for treating him like every other person in his role. Although appreciated, isn't that what every leader/manager should strive to do on a daily basis? I did not do anything special, just trying to treat people with respect. Candidly, I am sure I failed at that at times as well, maybe more than I can remember. None of us are gifted with perfection.
It's a very delicate subject. I hope that before I die, racism will be a thing of the past. Do I think it is better than years ago? Yes, I do. Is it still there, yes it is with some people. Our military men and women have enough challenges without adding in racism and other issues, etc. I sure hope this makes a difference for some people reading this post.
Lastly, promotions are not really about the job you have done in the past, rather it is more about your ability to take on additional responsibility, be that in the US Military or Corporate America. Did I ever think that someone got a job that I wanted was 'kissing up' or whatever term you may want to use? I sure did, but you know what, when the dust settled and life moved forward, I realized that it was in my best interest, even one of those being decades later.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity of feedback...
(0)
(0)
0
0
0
Perhaps we should look at the value of the individual and not make premier their group identity. As MLK said so eloquently, honor their character not their color.
(0)
(0)
1
0
1
Back in history as we all should know, provided the educational system did its job, the military was not designed for anyone other than white males. Yes, black men did serve; but they were not only separated and segregated, but also dismissed, demeaned, overlooked and unrecognized. Then, when women and other minorities were finally graced with the privilege of serving, they were treated in the same manner. Therefore, to ensure adequate, proper, and equal representation and promotions, yes, the armed forces had to be forced to treat them equally. Had the armed forces at that time been able to treat them in the same manner as they treated white men, then they wouldn’t have been forced to do so. That’s what is being forgotten. I apologize that the educational system failed so many in that these facts were not taught or maybe just not learned. I was part of the very first integrated male and female basic training unit at fort Jackson back in 1993, so it was something big back then; however, if it took until 1993 for the sexes to be integrated image how segregated things were before then? So, I say again, because the armed forces favored white males in all aspects, they required being forced to do the right thing. While some areas have improved with the implementation of using points for things like advancement and promotions, other areas are still lacking now in 2022. So, look at the ENTIRE picture, from start to present, before making such insensitive and plain I’ll-mannered, uninformed, and inaccurate statements.
(1)
(1)
SGT Nickolas Ortiz
Who cares? Why do people constantly act like they're victims?
In the USA today, you have an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of your paint job or zip code. Sure, many people have it better because of where they're born or who there parents are... so what? If a Latino kid from the streets of Detroit can have a successful career in the Military and wind up making over $125k a year, loving family, great home life, and a great future, ANYONE can do it. First thing you have to get over is you're NOT "African" or "Latino" (I used that for your sake), or "whatever"... it's irrelevant in America today. You do not wish to be poor? 1. Graduate High school 2. Have a job 3. Do not have children until AFTER you're married. It's that simple...
In the USA today, you have an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of your paint job or zip code. Sure, many people have it better because of where they're born or who there parents are... so what? If a Latino kid from the streets of Detroit can have a successful career in the Military and wind up making over $125k a year, loving family, great home life, and a great future, ANYONE can do it. First thing you have to get over is you're NOT "African" or "Latino" (I used that for your sake), or "whatever"... it's irrelevant in America today. You do not wish to be poor? 1. Graduate High school 2. Have a job 3. Do not have children until AFTER you're married. It's that simple...
(3)
(0)
MAJ David Stokes
ANOTHER crock of shit! IF any other race were treated like WHITE MALES the world would come to an end. YOU have never been treated with anything but with ass kissing! You are victim of the racist in the mirror. What would you say if a black person was told sorry you can't get promoted because we have to promote a white male? yeah... I can hear the screaming still. GET OVER YOUR SKIN! BE A HUMAN - IF YOU CAN! you want to keep dwelling on the past - ITS THE PAST! NOT THE PRESENT!
HEY! 200 years ago someone in my family history had to sleep outside.. because they were white. SOUND STUPID? Of course it does. AND, THAT SPC Lawanda Boddie is what you sound like.
Have you EVER had to stand on your own two feet as a person? Or is it always .. I am BLACK BS!
HEY! 200 years ago someone in my family history had to sleep outside.. because they were white. SOUND STUPID? Of course it does. AND, THAT SPC Lawanda Boddie is what you sound like.
Have you EVER had to stand on your own two feet as a person? Or is it always .. I am BLACK BS!
(1)
(0)
0
0
0
Last I checked, we were all green in the military. Advancement based on anything besides merit and leadership severely compromises our readiness.
Members of the armed forces need to lose their obsession with race, religion, etc. And focus on the mission.
That being said, bias works both ways. And it needs to end. It shouldn't matter who is in the hole next to you, as long as you have each other's six.
And for the haters, I'm not saying bias doesn't happen. I know it does. But it needs to end across the board. That's not going to happen by increasing it for select groups.
Do your job, and drive on.
Members of the armed forces need to lose their obsession with race, religion, etc. And focus on the mission.
That being said, bias works both ways. And it needs to end. It shouldn't matter who is in the hole next to you, as long as you have each other's six.
And for the haters, I'm not saying bias doesn't happen. I know it does. But it needs to end across the board. That's not going to happen by increasing it for select groups.
Do your job, and drive on.
(0)
(0)
Read This Next
Continue with Facebook 
Continue with Google