Photo By Maj. Jacqwayne Griffin | PHOENIX, Ariz. - Two Arizona Forest Rangers pose for the camera during the 2021...... read more read more
PHOENIX, Ariz. – The Steele Indian School Park played host to over 90-degree temperatures throughout most of the day. Still, nothing could dampen their spirits as thousands flocked together at the 2021 Phoenix Pride Festival parade and festival on Nov. 6, 2021. Military veterans and service members attended this family-friendly experience, proudly carrying colorful flags and t-shirts with messages such as "Love Wins" and "We're here 4 u".
Openly gay, lesbian, and bisexual soldiers have served in the military since 2011. Acceptance of LGBTQ+ members has expanded with the lifting of a ban on transgender service members in 2021, permitting all servicemembers the right to be their authentic selves while serving. Veterans and active servicemembers were eager to share their experiences.
"This is my place where I feel comfortable and happy," said Sgt. Daniel Vincent of the 98th Aviation Troop Command. "It is nice to be able to show my pride and be open as a Soldier." Vincent could not express himself during the "don't ask, don't tell" policy, which prohibited Soldiers from disclosing their sexual orientation. "I have been in the Army for over 15 years, dealt with 'don't ask, don't tell', and I had to hide my being to be able to keep my career that I enjoy and love," said Vincent. "It is awesome now to be in the Arizona Army National Guard, as there is now inclusivity. We don't have to fear for our lives and our career, and it's beautiful to celebrate that."
Former U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Richard Barron also experienced acceptance during his time in service. "When I joined [the Air Force], 'don't ask, don't tell' was still in effect, but it was repealed a month later," said Barron, who served for six years as a Russian linguist. "I served in the Intelligence community…and I was very lucky that people were very accepting. I had a good time and had a lot of very good role models."
Marine veteran Cpl. Craig McCarthy felt his attendance displayed his support and love for his brother and servicemembers within the LGBTQ+ community. "The military and the [LGBTQ+] community are similar," said McCarthy. "People serve because they love our country, so just get out there and do what you love."
McCarthy counsels service members who fear acceptance for coming out. "Speak up and be yourself," McCarthy said. "Don't let anyone push you around or tell you to be different; just be yourself."
Acceptance of differences within the ranks has had quite the journey. America's diversity has always been one of our great strengths, as people of different backgrounds, cultures, and heritage share their unique perspectives, skills, and talents. The Department of Defense continues to focus on emerging talent to attract, recruit, develop and retain highly skilled people through implementing the Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan.
| Date Taken: | 11.06.2021 |
| Date Posted: | 12.03.2021 20:37 |
| Story ID: | 410445 |
| Location: | PHOENIX, AZ, US |
| Web Views: | 93 |
| Downloads: | 2 |
This work, Diversity Is Our Lethal Weapon, by MAJ Jacqwayne Griffin and SSG Christopher Hernandez, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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