Federal GLOBE-Gay,Lesbian,and Bisexual Employees of the Federal Government
FROM THE SECRETARY OF THE U.S. AIR FORCE
SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE
WASHINGTON
OCT 29 1997
MEMORANDUM FOR ALMAJCOM-FOA/CC (All Major Commands and Forward Operating Agencies)
DISTRIBUTION C (Headquarters in the Pentagon and Washington area)
SUBJECT: Command Responsibility for Equal Opportunity
This letter reiterates Air Force policy on equal opportunity, as previously stated in our 28 February 1995 Discrimination and Sexual Harassment memorandum. The policy is straightforward: zero tolerance for any kind of unlawful discrimination against military members or civilian employees based on color, national origin, race, religion or sex, and in the case of civilian employees, also age, sexual orientation or disabling conditions.
Equal opportunity is an essential function of leadership and command. It is based on our Air Force ideals of fairness, dignity, and justice in the treatment of our most important resource -- our people. We must have everyone's total commitment to an environment that affords all of our people the opportunity to achieve their maximum potential through individual merit, fitness, and capability. We must keep our environment free from all unlawful discrimination, sexual harassment, and reprisal.
Our commitment to equal opportunity is stronger than ever. Equal opportunity and treatment are integral parts of leadership and are responsibilities shared by all Air Force personnel. Equal opportunity is essential to good order and discipline, combat readiness, and mission accomplishment. It is the right thing to do, and we cannot afford anything less in the defense of our nation.