Unique Snacks’ Post

Commentary on Diversity Commitment for US Military Academics Julie Posselt and Pedro Noguera write an op-ed piece on how the US military academies have set an exemplary model for defining their commitment to diversity in the wake of lawsuits and Supreme Court Rulings. See the article here: https://loom.ly/suhF4Ak

On this day in 1775, the American Revolution began with the first shots fired at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts between British and Colonial soldiers. Founding Forward’s mission is to inform the future leaders of our country of the history of the principles and events that led to our founding. Learn more about our #civic #education mission here: www.foundingforward.org. #history #FoundingForward

Did you know? In January 1944, there were nearly 100,000 Black Sailors in the United States Navy, but none were officers. That would change when a group of sixteen Black enlisted men assembled at the Recruit Training Center, Great Lakes, Illinois, for officer training that month. The odds were initially stacked against them as there was still a strong sentiment within the Navy that African Americans could not succeed as officers. The normal officer training course was sixteen weeks; however, these men were expected to complete it in eight weeks - a move that they believed was an attempt to set them up for failure. The Navy also expected a twenty-five percent attrition rate, similar to white officer candidates. However, the group of sixteen were determined not to fail and supported one another throughout the brutal pace of the training. Though lights out was at 2230 each night, the group placed blankets over their windows and studied together by flashlight, each man bringing his expertise to help strengthen the skills and knowledge of the others. When the course was over, all sixteen passed their exams. In fact, their marks were so outstanding that some in Washington were certain that the men had cheated. When the group was forced to retake certain exams, they scored even higher, with an average grade of 3.89 out of 4-the highest average of any class in Navy history at the time. Despite all sixteen passing the course, the Navy still wished to commission only 12, or seventy-five percent, as officers. Twelve were selected, and a thirteenth was made a chief warrant officer, hence the nickname "The Golden Thirteen." The other three were sent back into the enlisted ranks without explanations. Quote of the Day "It is your reaction to adversity, not the adversity itself, that determines how your life story will develop." - Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Weekend JD student and naval officer D'Mia Spivey knows the rewards of hard work. Reflecting on her nearly-complete first year in the program, Spivey says, “I want people considering this program to know that you might think your story is [unsuited] for law school, but you have a place here. Loyola wants you to be a part of this program.” Learn more about Spivey and Loyola's Weekend JD program: https://lnkd.in/g4ikv4hg

A look into the challenges Black cadets face at the Air Force Academy. The article explores the reasons behind the lower graduation rates and the ongoing efforts to increase diversity. #MilitaryLeadership #DiversityAndInclusion #EducationEquity

Short and to the point article from my Classmate Zoe Kreitenberg with my thoughts below. We talk about the benefits of diversity as a justification for affirmative action, but I think it is more important to recognize it as a moral imperative. I’ve believed in social engineering ever since I researched it for an essay piece in high school and I still believe that it is wrong to systematically disadvantage a group and then oppose ways to course correct back to the right path. On the micro level, meritocracy seems fair—but systematic injustice is on the macro level and that is where social engineering prevails. I am glad our Academies will still have the ability to engineer diversity into their classes and play the long game—increasing representation and diversity in senior leadership—but it is a shame our society will return to preventing more equitable outcomes for the much larger civilian population.

Moments of impact. After 29 years in the Navy, W. Perry Bingham has followed the golden rule: treat others like you want to be treated. He has gotten a cross-generational perspective on this through his time of service, supporting his wife with scholarship programs, and now through sitting on the Board of Directors for the Anchor Scholarship Foundation. He is focused on setting up young military people for success and creating a lasting impact as they advance. #NationalVeteransAndMilitaryFamiliesMonth

Learn more about Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation at this link and see what a difference you can help us make for the children of our fallen military. Check out our post below with two current examples!

American History: On November 30, 1864, a poignant chapter unfolded in the American Civil War as the Confederate Army of Tennessee suffered heavy losses in an attack on the Union Army of the Ohio during the Battle of Franklin. This battle, marked by sacrifice and valor, played a significant role in the broader narrative of the Civil War. Today, we remember those who fought and reflect on the profound impact of this moment in American history. 🇺🇸⚔️ #CivilWarHistory #BattleofFranklin #AmericanHistory HaJunk - Business Development

Fun Fact: My grandfather was one of the first blacks allowed to join the Marine Corps during World War ll. Today, as we observe Juneteenth, it's essential to recognize that this day is much more than just a day off. Juneteenth marks the liberation of the last enslaved African Americans in 1865, a pivotal moment in our nation's history. Celebrating Juneteenth involves more than acknowledging the past; it requires education, action, and meaningful celebration. Let’s take this opportunity to: - Educate: Learn about the significance of Juneteenth and the ongoing journey towards racial equity. - Act: Engage in conversations, support Black-owned businesses, and advocate for policies that promote justice and equality. - Celebrate: Honor the rich cultural heritage and achievements of Black Americans through festivities, art, and community events. Let’s commit to making Juneteenth a day of profound reflection and purposeful action, celebrating the progress made and recognizing the work still to be done. https://lnkd.in/edQvZC_8 #Juneteenth #Education #Action #Celebration #RacialEquity #BlackHistory