WASHINGTON, D.C.-On Oct. 29, 2013, Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, will lead a discussion on progress made and challenges ahead in improving diversity and inclusion in the military at a conference hosted by the German Marshall Fund entitled “Mission Critical: Diversity and Security."
The conference will feature 100 U.S. and European policymakers, thought leaders, and military practitioners who will address the impact of demographic change and advances in gender equity on the military. Notable guests include Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Jessica L. Wright and U.S. Senator Ben Cardin from Maryland.
Cummings has been a strong advocate for diversity in the military and Coast Guard for many years. In 2009, Cummings joined Senator Cardin and other Members to establish the Military Leadership Diversity Commission in order to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the policies related to the promotion of women and minorities in the armed services. In 2012, Cummings co-hosted a forum on efforts to institute the Commission’s recommendations.
On Jan. 2, 2013, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2013 was enacted with provisions authored by Cummings and other Members to enhance diversity and eliminate hazing in the military.
WHAT: Cummings to Speak at The German Marshall Fund Conference on Diversity in the Military
WHO: Rep. Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.)
Panelists: Rear Admiral June Ryan, Military Advisor to the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security Mr. Clarence Johnson, Director, DoD Office of Diversity Management and Equal Opportunity (ODMEO)
WHEN: Tuesday, October 29 from 12:40 - 1:15 p.m. EST
WHERE: Congressional Visitors Center, Room HVC-201, Washington, D.C.
