The Department of Defense (DoD) has announced new guidance regarding the observance of cultural awareness months within its components and military departments. According to the statement, official resources, including man-hours, will no longer be allocated for hosting celebrations or events related to cultural awareness months such as National African American/Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Pride Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and National American Indian Heritage Month.
The Secretary of Defense emphasized that unity and purpose are crucial for fulfilling the department's warfighting mission. The guidance noted that efforts to prioritize one group over another could "erode camaraderie and threaten mission execution."
While service members and civilians can still attend these events unofficially outside of duty hours, installations, units, and offices are encouraged to celebrate the achievements of military heroes from diverse backgrounds. The focus is urged to shift towards honoring their service rather than their immutable characteristics.
This directive is effective immediately.
