XVIII AIRBORNE CORPS EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
|HOME| |POLICY LETTERS| |OBSERVANCE| |QNSR| |EOLC| |UNIT CLIMATE SURVEY| |SAV| |COMPLAINT PROCEDURES| |LINKS| |ANNOUNCEMENTS| | PHOTOS AA 2008| |PHOTOS BLACK HISTORY 2008| |PHOTOS WOMEN'S EQUALITY DAY 2008 | |PHOTOS HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH 2008 | |PHOTOS WOMEN'S HISTORY 2008| |NEWSLETTER| |LEADERS TOOLBOX| |PHOTOS MLK 2009| |PHOTOS BLACK HISTORY 2009| |WOMEN'S HISTORY RUN 2009| |WOMEN'S HISTORY 2009| |WOMEN'S EQUALITY DAY 2009
UPCOMING EVENTS
Native American Indian Heritage Month
National
American Indian Heritage month is celebrated from 1 November through 30 November
2009 to honor American Indians and Alaska Natives contributions to the history
and culture of the United States. The 2009 national theme is
“Understanding Native American Indian Heritage - Now and Then.”
Native Americans have enriched our heritage and added to all aspects of our society. Our country is thankful to have their character and strength, and we are especially grateful for the generations of American Indians and Alaska Natives who have answered the call to defend our country. During World War II, these brave patriots used their native language to create an unbreakable oral code. Today, that legacy continues as they work to advance freedom’s cause.
During National American Indian Month, we honor our native peoples and recognize the tribal cultures, heritage and traditions of the American Indian and Alaska Native. All members of XVIII Airborne Corps’ units and Fort Bragg should take time to reflect on their contributions to both the Nation and the military.
The XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg Garrison Equal Employment office are hosting this observance on 18 November 2009 from 1130 - 1300 at the Fort Bragg Officers Club. The cost of the lunch is $10.00. All military, civilian employees and family members are invited to attend. Point of contact is SFC Monica Bailey, XVIII Airborne Corps Equal Opportunity Advisor at (910) 396-3509, extension 22, or email: monica.bailey@conus.army.mil for more information and reservations.
Hispanic Heritage Month Observance 2009
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from 15 September through 15 October to honor Hispanic American contributions to history and culture of the United States. History Heritage Month originally began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Johnson and was later expanded to a full month by President Reagan wit respect to the anniversary of the independence of the five Latin American countries-Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Along with those countries , Mexico and Chile both declared their independence on 16 September and 18 September respectively. This year's theme is "Embracing the Fierce Urgency of Now."
Hispanics have been instrumental in helping to form the United States from its infancy. Since the Revolutionary War they have aided the nation in every major war and they continue to proudly serve and protect the values that America holds dear. In both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom they have embodied the Army values of courage, duty, honor, and respect.
During Hispanic Heritage Month, commanders are encouraged to take time to increase the awareness and celebrate the dedicated service and contributions of the Hispanic Americans to out nation and to our Army.
The XVIII Airborne Corps and 44th MEDCOM are hosting a Hispanic Heritage Month Observance on 8 October 2008 from 1130 -1300. at the Ritz-Epps Physical Fitness Center. All military and civilians employees may attend this event consistent with the mission requirements. Commanders, Directors, Managers, and Supervisors should encourage participation in this event. Contact SFC Thomas Evcic, Fort Bragg Equal Opportunity Officer, at (910) 396-3509, extension 22, or email: thomas.evcic@conus.army.mil for more information and reservations.
Women's Equality Day Month 2009
Our nation will celebrate Women's Equality Day on August 26, 2009. In 1971 Congress proclaimed August 26th as the date to commemorate the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which gave women full voting rights in 1920.
Since the earliest days of our democracy Americans have taken great pride in our pursuit of equality. We have struggled for equal rights and have pursued the ideal of building a perfect union where all mean and women are treated equally. On the Women's Equality Day, we celebrate the passage of the 19th Amendment; a great milestone for equality in America. We pay tribute to the inspiring individuals who stepped forward and asked our nation to live up to its founding principles of equality for all.
The courage a vision of American suffragist strengthened our nation and allowed us to build a country where the dignity of every person is respected and where opportunity is within everyone's reach.
The history of the women's equality in an integral part of the history of America. This day provides an excellent opportunity for the Soldiers and civilians to acknowledge the women's equality movement. Commanders, directors, and supervisors should encourage their personnel to participate in the events that celebrate those contributions.
Contact SFC Thomas Evcic, Fort Bragg Equal Opportunity Officer, at (910) 396-3509, extension 22, or email: thomas.evcic@conus.army.mil for more information and reservations for XVIII Airborne Corps events in celebration of Women's Equality Day.
Asian Pacific Heritage Month 2009
The
month of May is recognized as National Asian Pacific / Pacific Islander Month.
As part of the celebration, we will highlighted the rich heritage of the Asian
and Pacific Islander people in America. From the early 1800's through the late 20th
Century, Asian an Pacific people have played a vital role in the development of
the United States, making lasting contributions in all elements of American
society. We recognize Vinod Dahm, who helped to revolutionize computer
technology with the invention of the Pentium chip. Governor Benjamin
Cayetano of Hawaii and Gary Locke of Washington have devoted their lives to
public service. The talents of novelist Amy Tan have delighted readers
across United States, while architect and sculptor Maya Lin's stirring memorials
to the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement have uplifted and inspired and
inspired all who have experienced them.
In continuing effort to enrich our partnership with diversity, let us draw on our strengths added by Asian and Pacific Americans and applaud their proud legacy of service and dedication to this country. XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg will sponsor this year Asian Pacific / Pacific Islander observance from 1130-1300 on 29 May 2009. The 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade (BfSB) will host this this observance at Ritz-Epps Fitness Center. This year's theme is "Leadership to Meet the Challenges of a Changing World."
All military and civilian employees may attend this event consistent with mission requirements. Commanders, Directors, Managers, and Supervisors should encourage participation in this event. Contact SFC Thomas Evcic, Fort Bragg Equal Opportunity Officer, at (910) 396-3509, extension 22, or email: thomas.evcic@conus.army.mil for more information and reservations.
Days of Remembrance Observance 2009
At the end of World War II, the 82nd Airborne Division
liberated the Wobelein Concentration Camp. The human suffering inflicted
there was a representative of the brutality carried out in the larger
extermination camps. In 1978, General Gavin, the former Division Commander
wrote the following, "Seeing it was more than a human being could stand.
Even after three years of war, it brought tears to my eyes." Since that
time, Soldiers of the XVIII Airborne Corps have fought against oppression and
the denial of human rights in the Dominican Republic, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama,
Southwest Asia, the former Yugoslavia, and Central Asia.
XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg will Sponsor this year's "Days of Remembrance" observance from 1130-1300 on 29 April 2009. The 20th Engineer Brigade and Womack Army Medical Center will host this observance in Weaver Auditorium, in the basement of Womack Army Medical Center.
All military and civilian employees may attend this event consistent with mission requirements. Commanders, Directors, Managers, and Supervisors should encourage participation in this event. Contact SFC Thomas Evicic, TF Bragg Equal Opportunity NCOIC, at (910) 396-3509, extension 22, or email: thomas.evicic@conus.army.mil for more information and reservations.
Women's History Month Observance 2009
Each year March is designated as National Women’s History Month to ensure that the history of women is recognized and celebrated throughout the Nation. America’s military has been transformed by strong women whose contributions have shaped our military history. Margaret Corbin fought beside her husband at Fort Washington during the Revolutionary War, becoming the historic heroine whose story of bravery and dedication has inspired women and men for generations. Commander Darlene Iskra became the first woman to command a US Navy ship, the USS Opportune, breaking down barriers to opportunities for women in the Navy. General Anne Dunwoody’s career of visible firsts, culminating in the promotion to the rank of General in the US Army, the first woman to achieve that rank among all of the services, has opened doors for countless women. This month we honor the extraordinary women of our Nation’s past and recognize women who are demonstrating leadership today.
Women are continuing the legacy of leadership in economics, academics, science and technology, social policy, and the national defense. Women have gallantly come to the aide of their Nation’s defense. At this critical period in 2009, women in both military and civilian capacity are playing visible and significant roles in protecting our Nation against the War on Terror. Their contributions are characterized by acts of self-sacrifice, patriotism, dedication, and personal heroism.
The theme for National; Women’s History Month’s 2009 celebration is Women Taking the Lead to Save our Planet, which honors women who have spearheaded efforts at all levels in various communities in the environmental or “green” movement. We should reflect on the pioneering and fearless ways that women have taken the lead to protect the natural resources of our planet. Throughout March XVIII Airborne Corps and Forth Bragg will celebrate Women’s History Month commemorating the sacrifice and achievement of women.
Black History Month Observance 2009
Each February, we celebrate Black History Month to honor men and women who
helped shape the course of American History and recognize African-Americans’
heritage, struggles, achievements, and progress. Traditionally, the President
has declared February as Black History Month and has supported this event by
issuing a Presidential Proclamation.
African-Americans have contributed much toward shaping America’s history, often against considerable odds. Changes in attitudes and advances in the areas of civil rights allowed more African-Americans to reach the forefront of American politics, public service, the entertainment industry, and sports.
The 2009 theme for Black History Month is “Reaching Out to Youth: A Strategy For Excellence.” The Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation will be holding its Black History Month Observance on 19 February 2009 at the Fort Bragg Officers Club from 1130-1300. The guest speaker will be Mr. Clairborne D. Haughton, Jr., Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Equal Opportunity. The cost of the lunch is $10.00.
All military and civilian employees may attend this event consistent with mission requirements. Commanders, Directors, Managers, and Supervisors should encourage participation in this event. Contact SFC Roxanne Williams, TF Bragg Equal Opportunity NCOIC, at (910) 396-3509, extension 22, or email: roxi.williams@conus.army.mil for more information and reservations.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday
Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Observance 2009
The 16th Military Police Brigade (Airborne) will sponsor a commemoration for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on 15 January 2009, in the Ritz Epps Physical Fitness Center from 1130 to 1300. The guest speaker will be Mr. Ronald M. McElrath, Director of the Fayetteville-Cumberland County Human Relations Commission. This observance includes a free luncheon.
The observance is intended to enhance cross-cultural awareness and promote harmony among all Service Members, Civilians, and Family Members. The theme is “Remember! Celebrate! Act!... A Day On, Not A Day Off.”
During this Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday observance, take time to reflect on Dr. King’s accomplishments. Few people have had as much impact upon the American consciousness as Dr. King. He was a pioneer for non-violent social change during the civil rights movements of the 1960s both as a Nobel Peace Prize winner and a religious leader.
All military and civilian employees may attend this event consistent with mission requirements. Commanders, Directors, Managers, and Supervisors should encourage participation in this event. Contact SFC Roxanne Williams, TF Bragg Equal Opportunity NCOIC, at (910) 396-3509, extension 22, or email: roxi.williams@conus.army.mil for more information and reservations.
Native American Indian Heritage Month
Native American Indian Month Observance 2008
In the early 1900s, the Boy Scouts of America set aside a day in honor of American Indians in order to celebrate the traditions of the “First Americans.” Through the next few decades, the Nation celebrated the contributions of these “First Americans” on different days designated by state. It was in 1990 that President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designated November 1990 “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Today in November, we continue to play in shaping our Nation’s culture and identity.
American Indians contributed significantly to our national defense and participated with distinction in United States military actions for more than 200 years. American Indians continue that century warrior tradition serving their Nation with pride, courage, and distinction and persistently exhibiting strength, bravery, and wisdom. From the Choctaw Indian code talkers in WW I and the Navajo and Comanche Indian code talkers in WWII to Hopi Indian Private First Class Piestawa in Operation Iraqi Freedom, many nationally recognized contributions remind us of the commitment American Indians have given to our Nation.
During National American Indian Heritage Month, we recognize the tribal cultures, heritage, history, art, and traditions of the American Indian and Alaska Native. I encourage all members of XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg to reflect on the contributions of American Indians to both the Nation and the military. This month provides an excellent opportunity for Soldiers, Civilians, and Family Members to acknowledge the past and present accomplishments of American Indians.
The Special Emphasis Program Committee, Installation Management Command, Headquarters, United States Army Garrison – Fort Bragg is hosting this observance on 20 November 2008 from 1130-1300 hrs at the Fort Bragg Officers’ Club – Lafayette Room. The guest speaker will be Josiah Black Eagle Pinkham, Member of the Nez Perce Tribe, Lapwai, Idaho. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Living in Many Worlds.” The cost of the lunch is $8.25.
All military and civilian employees may attend this event consistent with mission requirements. Commanders, Directors, Managers, and Supervisors should encourage participation in this event. Contact SFC Roxanne Williams, TF Bragg Equal Opportunity, at (910) 396-3509 ext. 22, email: roxi.williams@conus.army.mil for more information and reservations.
Hispanic Heritage Month Observance 2008
Hispanic
Heritage Month is celebrated from 15 September through 15 October to honor
Hispanic American contributions to the history and culture of the United States.
The 2008 national theme for this month long period is “Getting Involved: Our
Families, Our Community, and Our Nation.”
Hispanic Americans have enriched our Nation through contributions in many professions and fields, including education, law, government, business, science, sports, and the arts. Hispanic Americans have served bravely in the military, and are recognized for their leadership, courage, and patriotism. Today, Hispanic Americans in the Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force continue this proud legacy. They have stepped forward to serve the Nation in its time of need, continuing to serve bravely in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
All of the XVIII Airborne Corps’ units, Ft Bragg, and 43rd Airlift Wing should reflect on the significant contributions and achievements Hispanics have made throughout our national and military history. I salute those of Hispanic background who have made, and continue to make, landmark contributions to the legacy of their heritage and our country. I encourage everyone to participate in activities which celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
The XVIII Airborne Corps and 43rd Airlift Wing is hosting this observance on 2 October 2008 from 1130-1300 at the Ritz Epps Physical Fitness Center. The guest speaker will be Yvonne Pena, Director of the Human Relations, Durham, NC. The cost of the lunch is free.
All military and civilian employees may attend this event consistent with mission requirements. Commanders, Directors, Managers, and Supervisors should encourage participation in this event. Contact SFC Roxanne Williams, TF Bragg Equal Opportunity NCOIC, (910) 396-3509 ext. 22, email: roxi.williams@conus.army.mil or 2d Lt Curtis Lloyd, (910) 394-4059, email: Curtis.lloyd@pope.af.mil for more information and reservations.
Women's Equality Day Observance 2008
In 1971, the U.S. Congress designated 26 August as “Women’s Equality Day” to honor the contributions and achievements of women to this country. The date is historically significant because on 26 August 1920, the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution affirmed women’s democratic right to vote.
The XVIII Airborne Corps will observe Women’s Equality Day on 26 August 2008. The purpose of this observance is to dedicate ourselves to fulfilling our obligation to promote equality to all Americans. We also recognize the many and vital contributions which women have made to the history and development of our nation, the Army and the XVIII Airborne Corps. Units are encouraged to support appropriate programs and activities to observe “Women’s Equality Day.”
Contact SFC Stephanie Buffaloe 82nd Airborne Division EOA, Comm. (910) 432-0663, DSN 239-0663, email: stephanie.buffaloe@us.army.mil, for information.
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
Asian Pacific American Heritage Observance 2008
On October 23, 1992, with unanimous approval by the House of Representative and the Senate of the 102nd Congress, President George Bush signed legislation declaring May as the annual Asian Pacific-American Heritage Month. The theme for this month is “Leadership, Diversity, and Harmony - Gateway to Success.” The month of May is significant in the history of Asian Pacific Americans in that Japanese immigrants first arrived in the United States on May 7, 1843, and May 10, 1869 marks the day that the transcontinental railroad was completed, connecting the East to the West.
Before June 21, 2000, only nine Asian Pacific Americans among 2,439 recipients had received the prestigious Medal of Honor, but after President Clinton’s May 12, 2000 approval, 21 Distinguished Service Crosses previously awarded to Asian Pacific Americans were upgraded to Medals of Honor. Nineteen of the Asian Pacific Americans selected as Medal of Honor recipients were Japanese Americans who fought with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team or 100th Infantry Battalion. Throughout American military history, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, primarily made up of Asian Americans, is the most decorated unit of the Armed Forces. Overall the unit received 9,500 Purple Hearts, 560 Silver Stars, 52 Distinguished Service Crosses, and 19 Medals of Honor.
As the fastest growing minority in the United States, Asian Pacific Americans can no longer be overlooked, forgotten, or dismissed. I encourage all members of XVIII Airborne Corps to support and participate in community activities during Asian Pacific Heritage Month. Asian Americans embody many of our Nations core values, including devotion to family, commitment to hard work, and pride in their heritage.
Contact SFC Kimberly Stokes 16th MP Brigade EOA, Comm. (910) 396-8178, DSN 236-8178, email: Kimberly. stokes@conus.army.mil, for information.
Days of Remembrance Observance 2008
The XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg will observe “The Days of Remembrance” for victims of the Holocaust on 17 April 2008. The purpose of this observance is to remember the men, women, and children who were innocent victims of tyranny during World War II.
At the end of World War II, the 82d Airborne Division liberated the Wobelein Concentration Camp. The human suffering inflicted there was representative of the brutality carried out in the larger extermination camps. In 1978, General Gavin, the former Division Commander, wrote that “seeing it was more than a human being could stand. Even after 3 years of war, it brought tears to my eyes.” Since that time, Soldiers of the XVIII Airborne Corps have fought against oppression and the denial of human rights in the Dominican Republic, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, the former Yugoslavia and Central Asia.
Fort Bragg is sponsoring an observance for “The Days of Remembrance” from 1130-1300 on 17 April 2008, at the Womack Medical Center’s Weaver Auditorium. Mr. Morris Glass, a Holocaust survivor, will be the guest speaker.
All military and civilian employees may attend this event consistent with mission requirements. Commanders, directors, managers, and supervisors should encourage participation in this event.
Contact SFC Terence T. Gaines, 18th Fires Brigade EOA, Comm. (910) 396-5560, DSN 236-5560, email: terence.t.gaines@us.army.mil, for information.
Women's History Month Observance 2008
Each year, March is designated as National Women's History Month ensuring that the history of American women will be recognized and celebrated. From the days of the American Revolution to the Global War on Terrorism, American women have honorably served in the defense of our Nation. In times of war and peace, women have willingly responded to their country's call. Their contributions are characterized by individual and collective acts of self sacrifice, patriotism, dedication, and personal heroism.
The national theme for this year's celebration is "Women's Art: Women's Vision," where we will honor the originality and imagination of American women. The history of women and art is quintessential to women's history. This national year's theme will provide a special opportunity to discover and celebrate women's visual arts in a variety of forms and mediums.
Fort Bragg's theme for the Women's History Month is "Women's Vision: A Glimpse Through Her Eyes." This theme will honor those women that have impacted history through the arts, the military, local and national politics, as well as local heroes while showcasing some of today’s contemporary women in these fields and the community organizations that support them.
The 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade is hosting an observance on 25 March 2008 from 1000-1500 at the Fort Bragg Officers’ Club, Lafayette Room. This event will be a walk-through series of detailed exhibits and displays highlighting women from various fields ranging from the arts, literature, military, and politics while spanning over 5 decades of history. The event will be educational and inspiring offering a unique look at not only the achievement of women throughout history but the vision and talent of those who are in and around our community as well.
The involvement of local museums, colleges, and community organizations serves to strengthen our ties to the community and endorse the wealth of resources on women’s art and history throughout the local area. All military and civilian employees may attend this event consistent with mission requirements. Commanders, directors, managers, and supervisors should encourage participation in this event. The event will be free of charge to all who attend and will remain open for 5 hours to accommodate all who would like to attend.
For more information contact SFC Craig B. Tuttle, 108th ADA BDE Equal Opportunity Advisor, Comm. (910) 907-5184, DSN 337-5184, email: craig.b.tuttle@us.army.mil.
U.S. Army Fort Bragg Corps EO - This is an Official Government website.