The Air Force is shifting its focus to LGBT “pride” amidst global conflicts, as Marianne Malizia, the Air Force’s chief diversity officer, issued a memo declaring June as “LGBTQ+ Pride Month 2024.” The memo celebrates the contributions of LGBTQ+ Airmen, Guardians, and dependents and promotes diversity and inclusivity within the force. Malizia’s memo also highlights challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and encourages activities to commemorate Pride Month.
This move has sparked controversy, with GOP lawmakers criticizing the Air Force for hosting LGBT-related events on its bases. There have been instances of pressure leading to the cancellation of drag shows at military installations. The Air Force has also authorized the use of taxpayer dollars to transport service members to Pride events, further fueling the debate.
This announcement comes at a time when the military is facing a recruiting crisis, with the Air Force falling short of its recruiting targets for FY2023. Experts have described this crisis as the worst since the implementation of the all-volunteer force in 1973. Despite concerns about the impact of DEI policies on recruitment, some are dismissing these claims and attributing the crisis to other factors like obesity rates and fluctuating labor markets.
