Congressman Anthony Brown: Republican Statements On Diversity Undermine American Values

Statement

Congressman Anthony G. Brown (MD-04), the senior Black member on the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to Republican criticism of military diversity and inclusion initiatives:

"Black Americans and other minorities answer the call to serve our nation at a greater rate than the general population. Yet, those same servicemembers are more likely to receive punishment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), they face barriers to becoming a fighter pilot or an operator in the special forces, and they are less likely to achieve the rank of general.

"Characterizing necessary Department of Defense diversity and inclusion initiatives as "Marxism" or as a detriment to our military's culture is not scholarship. Such arguments ignore our values and the historical role our armed services have had in advancing justice and equality. It is highly discouraging that some of my Republican colleagues have chosen to mischaracterize these initiatives to stoke partisan controversy and distract from the serious work taking place to strengthen unit cohesion and readiness.

"The United States military is the greatest fighting force in the world because of its diversity and shared values. Servicemembers don't have to come from the same places, adhere to the same religious beliefs or support the same candidates for office. Yet, our military has too often fallen short in its efforts to create a truly inclusive force that reflects our country and provides equal opportunity for everyone who serves. I applaud the Department's actions to reaffirm our commitment to an armed forces that fully represents our values and will continue to fight in Congress for the same."

###

Source