Embracing Diversity

The year 2020 brought the U.S. a lot of hard ship. Aside from the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans were also impacted by the onslaught of African American racial injustices. The Air Force was not exempt from this issue. Many Airmen are African American. Knowing this, the Air Force’s leadership was quick to act as they’ve mandated conversation about the ongoing issue. The overall perception of this initiative was well received. Especially when the Office of Diversity and Inclusion stood up to inform, train and act on matters like racial injustice.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYrMY9giK7I

It is easy to think that organizations make programs like the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to promote a favorable image, but that is more of a buy-product of what the Air Force truly aims to do. I believe the Air Force implemented this office to serve its diverse group of people. Creating a more comfortable environment builds confidence and safety to those who occupy it. Especially when the work people do in the Air Force consists of national defense.

From investigations done by other entities in the Air Force, it was concluded that there are racial disparities in military discipline, personnel development and career opportunities pertaining to African American Airmen. According to the Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion states, “The new office is charged with identifying and changing policies and procedures, removing barriers and other practices that may have an unfair effect upon underrepresented Airmen and Guardians.” As an African American wanting to be in the Air Force, this is very reassuring news. It is important for leadership to see the issues that face the people in an organization.