The U.S. Army has removed guidance that previously required diversity to be considered as part of the selection of individuals to serve in upper-level noncommissioned officer positions.
According to a new memo obtained by Military.com, Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer, who serves as the top enlisted leader of the military branch, recently issued new guidance for the selection of command sergeants major. The outlet noted that while the new guidance was almost identical to the previous guidance issued by the Army, the new guidance removed directions requiring an individual’s diversity to be considered when selecting high-ranking officers.
Military.com reported that the requirement removed by Weimer previously instructed the Army to “consider diversity to ensure leaders represent our formations.” The Daily Wire noted that the removal of the diversity requirement for upper-level noncommissioned officer positions comes as the military has faced consistent pressure from Republican lawmakers and other individuals who have exposed the Biden-Harris administration for prioritizing diversity, equity and inclusion policies over military preparation amid rising challenges across the globe.
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In addition to removing the former diversity requirement, the Army has also removed some of its other initiatives concentrated on diversity in the military branch in recent months. According to Military.com, the Army removed its diversity advertising campaign labeled “The Calling” from YouTube earlier this year. The advertisements included a video featuring a female soldier raised by lesbian parents and received significant backlash.
Military.com reported that Weimer and Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George also removed the Army’s “People First” slogan, which had guided Army policies for roughly four years and emphasized the needs of soldiers and their families over military readiness. The outlet noted that the “People First” emphasis resulted in an expansion of mental health services, stronger parental leave policies, and reduced standards for female recruits.
In a 2020 memo to the Army, retired Gen. James McConville, who previously served as the Army’s chief of staff, said, “Leveraging the diversity of experiences, values and talents will ensure the Army maintains a competitive advantage in the war for talent. As the nation becomes increasingly more diverse, the Army must continue capitalizing on the ideals of inclusion, embracing the opportunity to innovate, focusing on excellence, and expanding capabilities. We must acquire, develop, employ and retain the best and brightest of America’s talent pool.”
