USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment...December 2024...Honoring Each Other

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

Diversity Officers, here’s an opportunity to start a discussion with your unit at your next gathering, and doing so, fulfill Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star application. Leadership at all levels: Please consider adapting the ideas expressed here in leading yourselves, leading others, leading performance and change, and leading the Auxiliary.

December 2024

 

Honoring Each Other

 

***

 

“Be prepared to appreciate what you meet.”
― Frank Herbert

 

A heavily frequented site at Gettysburg National Park is Spangler’s Spring, a natural spring on the former battlefield. It changed hands during the battle a few times, and for a while it was in between the lines. Legend has it that a truce was called during the night of July 2^nd, 1863, where both sides allowed the other to pass safely to the spring to fill their canteens. Despite the mythologized story of both sides peacefully sharing water from Spangler’s Spring, there are documented instances of brutal fighting with high casualty counts adjacent to that spot. In 1895, the War Department built a permanent stone and concrete monument over the spring. Although the water there is no longer available, the structure is still in place. Three bronze plaques are affixed to it with the following:

 

“Spangler’s Spring”

One country and one flag. The strife of brothers is past.

This spring supplied Union and Confederate soldiers with water during the battle.

 

 

This anecdote has become entrenched in the Gettysburg narrative, which promoted the broader movement for national reconciliation. Two bitterly opposed sides ended up bonding with each other. After a long and arduous struggle to reunify our nation, they were able to overcome the animosity that previously threatened to overwhelm our country. Whether some of the details of the legend were embellished, we can take the lesson and apply it today, especially in the light of recent political events: We must find what unites us and then leverage the best of our inherent diversity to make ways of promoting our goals.

 

The Auxiliary is no different, as a microcosm of our society at large, everyone is represented. Our sometimes-difficult tasking is to find ways to manage all the various personalities in our organization and get all of us fully involved. There is no escaping the natural diversity that makes up our membership.

 

This Diversity Moment is a call to appreciate the many varied talents available to us. Appreciated and respected shipmates will want to do more and better. Success cannot help but follow.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spangler’s Spring monument. Photo credit: unknown

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, DIR-D

National Director – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Change Agent

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment...November 2024...Able to do the Job

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

Diversity Officers, here’s an opportunity to start a discussion with your unit at your next gathering, and doing so, fulfill Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star application. Leadership at all levels: Please consider adapting the ideas expressed here in leading yourselves, leading others, leading performance and change, and leading the Auxiliary.

November 2024

 

Able to do the Job

 

***

“Abled does not mean enabled. Disabled does not mean less abled.” ― Khang Kijarro Nguyen

Auxiliarist Alexander Urciuoli is a member of Flotilla 6-4 in Monterey, California. Alex has had Cerebral Palsy (CP) since birth, and his condition restricts his mobility. When he first discovered the Auxiliary online, he wondered what the physical requirements would be so that he could contribute to that intriguing organization.

After calling the local Flotilla Commander (FC), Alex found out that there are no physical restrictions to becoming an Auxiliarist. The FC said that he should find the things he wanted to do, and train to do them. Alex attended the next flotilla meeting and was invited to become a Watchstander at the local CG station. He immediately began training, and a year and a half later, in 2011, he earned his Watchstander qualification. Alex has served continuously in that role since then, exemplifying Devotion to Duty.

Of his accomplishments in the Auxiliary, Alex is proudest of taking the Watch every week. “I love working with the crew at Station Monterey,” he said. “For me, watchstanding never gets old.” Despite being a husband, father, and full-time high school teacher, he has consistently dedicated his time to personal and professional development, including becoming an Air Observer, earning his AUXOP, and serving in leadership.

If we are to continue gaining quality members, our recruitment posture should emphasize inclusion. By integrating strategies such as leadership commitment, an overall supportive culture, proactive mentorship, ongoing training, routine recognition, etc., we can create a more dynamic inclusive workforce that values respect, promotes diverse perspectives, and results in a unified team that wants to work together. Following this strategic pattern will aid greatly in retention as well.

Alex was empowered to seize the opportunity to become a valued part of the Auxiliary because his FC maintained an open, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere where he could thrive. That mindset as a leader was instrumental in guiding Alex (and his shipmates) to success. Implementing inclusion to fully enable our workforce involves a multi-faceted approach and will be successful if one is determined and creative in their application towards that goal.

 

 

   Alex Urciuoli at CG Station Monterey.
   Photo credit: MK2 Liam Breslin

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, DIR-D

National Director – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Change Agent

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

 

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment...October 2024...

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

Diversity Officers, here’s an opportunity to start a discussion with your unit at your next gathering, and doing so, fulfill Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star application. Leadership at all levels: Please consider adapting these ideas expressed in leading your units, programs, and teams.

October 2024

IDIC

***

“…In diversity there is beauty and there is strength” – Maya Angelou

 

The pop-culture TV phenomenon "Star Trek" provoked thought and discussion about controversial social issues – and it still remains relevant today. Though it was very much a product of its time (the late 1960s), the producers and writers nevertheless consistently took on hot topics like prejudice and bigotry, among others. The show got past the network’s censors because it superficially echoed what the controlling studio heads wanted viewers to consume, and, at the time, science fiction wasn’t taken seriously as a critique or reflection of society.

 

Many episodes tackled social issues allegorically, using classic sci-fi tropes to explore topics such as racism, war, and prejudice. “Star Trek” routinely featured strong female characters, challenging traditional gender roles of the era. All this diversity underscored the show's message of tolerance and acceptance. The show is conspicuous for its progressive portrayal of diversity and its willingness to tackle social issues at a time when such topics were not commonly addressed. It challenged all kinds of stereotypes at a time when such representation of minorities was rare on television.

 

In the episode, “Is There In Truth No Beauty?” CDR Spock and another character, Dr. Jones, have the following interaction: Jones: "The glory of creation is in its infinite diversity." Spock: "And the ways our differences combine to create meaning and beauty.” The idea was also emphasized throughout the series in the medallion worn by Spock, the “IDIC” (Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations).

 

Auxiliary has members of all backgrounds and represents an ideal place for this idea to take root. Showing respect to others sets the stage for every member to feel included and, in doing so, allows them to more fully and enthusiastically be involved. This is critical at a time where we are increasingly facing difficulty in both recruitment and leadership development.

 

Perfection and imperfection are inextricably linked, and we should all seek to accept that dichotomy in ourselves and in others. We all know that we are imperfect in many ways, but we must look for what unites us. Only then can we leverage diversity as a strength, using it to make effective ways of promoting our goals and carrying out our mission.

 

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

 

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Deputy Assistant National Commodore – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Change Agent

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment...September 2024...More In Common

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

 

Diversity Officers, here’s an opportunity to start a discussion with your unit at your next gathering, and doing so, fulfills Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star application. Leadership at all levels: Please consider adapting these ideas expressed in leading your units, programs, and teams.

 

September 2024

 

More In Common

 

***

 

“Society is unity in diversity.” – George Herbert Mead

 

"Society is unity in diversity" implies that a functional country is composed of individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and perspectives. This quote recognizes the richness that results when different elements come together harmoniously, contributing to a dynamic and inclusive social fabric. Let’s apply this concept to our organization and substitute “Auxiliary” for “society.”

 

A diverse team such as ours encompasses a wide spectrum of differences in every aspect. Each of these differences brings a unique set of experiences, knowledge, and traditions that enrich the abilities of our team. When our team members respectfully interact and collaborate in service of our mission, a wide range of ideas, innovations, and solutions arise that benefit the Auxiliary and the public we serve.

 

Unity means a sense of togetherness, mission-focus, and mutual respect among all members despite their differences. It involves recognizing and valuing the contributions and abilities of the entire workforce, fostering an environment where leadership and management is more effective, and everyone feels included and are encouraged to contribute.

One of the Auxiliary’s key strengths that is enhanced though this approach to unity is our ability to adapt and evolve - despite having a somewhat rigid framework of regulations we operate in. We are constantly being challenged to advance to higher levels of skill and knowledge, and we have consistently met that challenge for over 85 years. By drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of our membership, we can better address complex challenges and achieve excellence in all we do.

 

“Society is unity in diversity" emphasizes that a truly successful society (or organization) is one that embraces and respects its differences while promoting a shared sense of belonging and cooperation among all its members. In pursuing these virtues, we find we have more in common with each other than not. Through encouraging unity and diversity, we can achieve greater resilience and innovation, ultimately contributing to mission success as “America’s Volunteer Lifesavers.”

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Deputy Assistant National Commodore – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Change Agent

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment...August 2024...Do the Right Thing

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

 

Diversity Officers, here’s an opportunity to start a discussion with your unit at your next gathering,

and doing so, fulfills Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star application.

Leadership at all levels: Please consider adapting these ideas

expressed in leading your units, programs, and teams.

 

August 2024

 

Do the Right Thing

 

***

“When you do things right, people won't be sure

you've done anything at all.”

- Ken Keeler

 

This month’s quote suggests that when someone performs their tasks adeptly and without drama, their actions might not draw attention because everything appears seamless and effortless. It is particularly relevant in leadership and service roles where success is often measured by the absence of noticeable problems rather than their presence. Indeed, it is considered a virtue to not call undue attention to oneself.  

 

The phrase, "When you do things right, people won't be sure you've done anything at all," summarizes the idea of quiet effectiveness and understated success. It emphasizes that genuine proficiency often goes unnoticed amongst a workforce because such people in leadership positions prevent problems or disruptions from arising in the first place.

 

It is nice to be recognized for our efforts. People everywhere appreciate that action. That is not why we do what we do. We are not in the Auxiliary for the “bling.” Formal recognition is essential for morale, and it needs to follow hard upon a specific meritorious performance. However, when one does things with the expectation of reward, it will be noticed, and their personal effectiveness going forward becomes blunted and respect is diminished.

 

As is mentioned in the recommendations (in red) at the top of the page, these “Moments” are intended to assist leadership at all levels to think about new approaches to manage their units, while taking into consideration the diverse personalities involved. Look for reasons to acknowledge all members for successes big and small, serious and humorous. Look for opportunities to involve every member to be successful at something. Take pride in making a member’s day a little better, even if it is just a simple “thank you.” The smallest of gestures or a kind comment can have a positive impact on people.  Doing so will help encourage and empower your shipmates of the various talents and strengths within your unit. Strive to do things so that others do not even notice.

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Deputy Assistant National Commodore – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Change Agent

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment - JULY 2024

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

Diversity Officers, here’s an opportunity to start a discussion with your

unit at your next gathering, and doing so, fulfills Goal Category 1.3 in the

NACO 3-Star application.

Leadership, please consider adapting these ideas expressed in

leading out your units.

 

July 2024

 

Our Thread in that Rich Fabric

 

***

“In Europe, charters of liberty have been granted by power. America has set the example…of charters of power granted by liberty. This revolution in the practice of the world, may, with an honest praise, be pronounced the most triumphant epoch of its history..."

— James Madison

 

Patriotism is not just a word; it is the foundation upon which our nation exists. As Americans, we are not bound together simply by the lines on a map or the words of a constitution, but by the shared belief in the principles of freedom, equality, and justice. America is an idea; it always has been. The positive ideas and values that have overall defined our history guided the arc of our progress and inspired our people to achieve greatness for going on 248 years.

 

Patriotism is not confined to a battlefield. Patriotism is found in the everyday actions of ordinary citizens. Patriotism is the teacher who stays late to help a struggling student, the firefighter who rushes into a burning building, the Auxiliarist who volunteers weekends helping those in need. The totality of these acts, though seemingly small, collectively and continuously are what weave the fabric of our society. They remind us that patriotism is about service, commitment, and an unwavering belief in the potential of our nation.

This spirit of patriotism has driven us to overcome great challenges, from civil war to global conflicts, from economic depressions to social upheavals. Each time, we have emerged stronger, more resilient, and more united to successfully take on complex global threats, domestic divisions, and a rapidly changing social landscape. Nevertheless, we must remember that our strength lies in our unity and our shared values. Patriotism calls on us to set aside our differences, finds what unites us, so we can work together for the common good.

Patriotism is at the heart of America. Patriotism is the driving ethos behind our greatest achievements and the glue that holds us together in times of trial. If we continue to embrace it with the same fervor and dedication as those who went before us in serving our nation (like we do as Auxiliarists) we will continue to weave that glorious world epoch. The Auxiliary is proud to be but one thread in that American tapestry.

 

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

 

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Deputy Assistant National Commodore – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Change Agent

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment...June 2024...T.W.O. is One

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

Diversity Officers, here’s an opportunity to start a discussion with your unit at your next gathering. Doing this will fulfill Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star application. Leadership, please consider adapting the ideas expressed here in leading your units.

June 2024

 

T.W.O. is One

 

***

“Unity is our strength, unity of purpose, that is.                                                                                 Diversity comes into play through our abilities and perspectives.”                                                                                                                                           ~Nick Freitas

 

“Total Workforce Optimization” is a natural outgrowth of diversity as it has been characterized in recent years. Let’s briefly explore how diversity is different than total workforce optimization, the new focus and terminology of our Coast Guard commandant and this directorate.

 

"Diversity" has typically emphasized the variety of identities and backgrounds represented within a group or organization, often focusing on things such as race, gender, age, disability, etc. It emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and representation. These are worthy goals, however, "total workforce optimization" encompasses an extended broader perspective that includes diversity and inclusivity but goes further. It involves maximizing the effectiveness, productivity, and potential of the entire team, which includes individuals’ talents, experiences, and perspectives.

When all involved are aware of these important qualities and incorporate them into a team’s overall strategy, the end results are going to be more productive and satisfactory. Leadership should promote this approach and adapt the process to best fit their unit and the goal or goals desired. In this way, we maximize the effectiveness and potential of our entire workforce by enhancing the performance and capabilities of every individual within the Auxiliary.

 

We must always look to what unites us (aside from our membership in the Auxiliary) and then leverage that diversity of thought and perspective to move our collective work forward. “Total Workforce Optimization” is not just another mission statement or slogan. It is a real and meaningful change to enhance and progress our missions. This self-investment will make the Auxiliary more effective and innovative – in addition to improving the morale of our membership.

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Deputy Assistant National Commodore – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Change Agent

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment - May 2024

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

 

Diversity Officers, here’s an opportunity to start a discussion with your unit at your next gathering,

and doing so, fulfills Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star application.

Leadership, please consider adapting these ideas expressed in leading out your units.

 

May 2024

 

Optimized Respect

 

***

“Let every man be respected as an individual and no man idolized.”
~Albert Einstein

 

The Coast Guard’s Core Values are “Honor, Respect, Devotion to Duty.” Must respect always be earned? If we show disrespect to our shipmates (or really to anyone), then why would anyone want to continue to serve, much less join our team in the first place? If we go to the other extreme, idolizing, then again, why would anyone want to participate with those who foster and/or submit to that behavior?

 

Among adults in our culture, respect is usually something that is earned rather than automatically granted. This is particularly true in where individuals are expected to demonstrate their competence, integrity, and consideration for others over time. Respect is the acknowledgment of someone's worth, abilities, or qualities, which is what Einstein was driving at. In the military, it is an outward display of recognizing one’s position as well. Respect is an act of balance. Idolizing tends to involve a sense of unrestrained reverence and adulation usually directed towards a higher power or authority. Here, the line between respect and worship can sometimes blur, leading to unhealthy dynamics which we will call “toxic idolizing.”

 

It's important to recognize that there's a baseline level of respect that is often expected in all human interactions, simply as a matter of common decency and courtesy. This basic respect should be given initially to everyone until their actions or behavior indicate otherwise. This is not an argument to justify rudeness, however. So, while respect may need to be earned in deeper or more significant ways, basic respect for human dignity and rights is considered a fundamental aspect of social interaction. Exhibiting proper respect avoids toxic idolizing and invites all our shipmates to be positively involved.

 

By staying mindful of these dynamics and actively working to maintain healthy boundaries and perspectives, you can ensure that respect remains just that—respectful admiration while avoiding toxic idolizing behavior. In situations where there's a significant power differential, such as between a leader and their followers, respect can morph into toxic idolization as people feel compelled to defer to authority unquestioningly. In any case, basic respect of our fellow shipmates covers pretty much everything we represent, or at least, should represent to ourselves and those around us.

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Deputy Assistant National Commodore – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Change Agent

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

U.S. Coast Guard Seventh District

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

PLEASE NOTE: April 2024 version of the Diversity Moments

PLEASE NOTE:

 

Due to circumstances of an unforeseen situation, the April 2024 version of the Diversity Moments may not be available for this month. We appreciate your understanding. All will resume as soon as possible.

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Deputy Assistant National Commodore – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

 

 

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment...March 2024...Unity In Diversity

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

Shipmates, please take some time with this topic to start a discussion with your unit at your next meeting.

Utilizing these “Moments” fulfills Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star Diversity application.

 

March 2024

 

Unity In Diversity

 

 

***

 

“Unity, not uniformity, must be our aim. We attain unity only through variety. Differences must be integrated, not annihilated, not absorbed...” ~Mary Parker Follett

 

 

The quote above emphasizes the importance of unity amidst diversity, highlighting the idea that true unity is not achieved through enforcing uniformity but rather through respecting and integrating differences.

 

Let's examine each part of the quote:

"Unity, not uniformity, must be our aim." Unity refers to a common goal or purpose, and ours should be focused primarily on saving lives, property, and protecting the marine environment. It implies harmony and coherence amongst the membership. Uniformity, in this case, suggests sameness or homogeneity.

 

Uniformity belongs to uniforms, not people. It implies a lack of diversity or variation. While it's essential to strive for unity to accomplish anything, it's crucial to understand that unity doesn't necessitate everyone being the same. Instead, it's about finding common ground and being respectful to our membership.

 

"We attain unity only through variety." This part underscores the idea that diversity is not an obstacle to unity but rather can be employed in a positive manner to achieve unity. It suggests that embracing variety is essential for achieving creativity and mission success.

 

"Differences must be integrated, not annihilated, not absorbed." Destroying or absorbing differences implies a form of assimilation or domination over others, which can lead to marginalization and shutting down communication. Seriously reach out for feedback and see where ideas, or parts of ideas can be integrated, then implemented. We want our shipmates to feel they are part of the family. This is part of how we can strengthen our units to achieve goals.

 

Striking the proper balance between unity and diversity is a dynamic and situational thing, which is perhaps easier said than done. We should always advocate for a paradigm of inclusivity, cooperation, and mutual respect. It should become a mindset for all of us to find ways to advance respect. Let’s continue to involve our membership in all aspects of our missions, big and small, and in doing so, we promote retention and unity.

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Deputy Assistant National Commodore – D&I

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment FEB 2024 DVM

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

Shipmates, please take some time with this topic to start a discussion with your unit at your next meeting.

Utilizing these “Moments” fulfills Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star Diversity application.

 

February 2024

 

Prepare For Your Breakthrough

 

***

“Eliminating barriers is just good for the workforce. It makes it easier for everyone to serve honorably and support their families. We recruit an individual, we retain families.”

~ADM Linda Fagan

 

Admiral Linda Fagan became the Coast Guard’s 27th Commandant on the 1^st of June 2022, an achievement hard earned for anyone. Joining the U.S. Coast Guard Academy only five years after the first group of women had been granted admission, she graduated in 1985. Her success is attributed not only to building upon the accomplishments of those who preceded her, but also to her personal determination to strive for excellence. She has proven to be unbeatable.

 

In our nation today, most barriers are as thin as tissue paper, where desire acts as the iron, and opportunity as the magnet, separated only by this thin barrier. Changing attitudes and laws have fostered more opportunity for individuals who genuinely and sincerely aspire to succeed. The United States has led this effort, especially through the Americans with Disabilities Act.

 

Eliminating barriers not only promotes fairness but also brings tangible benefits to individuals and organizations. Doing so sets a positive cycle in motion where a supportive environment leads to increased productivity, success, and satisfaction for everyone involved. The result? People want to stay and continue to contribute.

 

Eliminating barriers has been a crucial approach that not only promotes fairness but also brings numerous tangible benefits to both individuals and organizations alike. It creates a positive cycle where a supportive environment leads to increased productivity, success, and satisfaction for everyone involved. The result? People want to stay and continue to contribute. We need to always be willing to help our shipmates prepare for success to give them reasons to stay. Part of this equation is preparing each other and ourselves through training.

 

When people feel that their organization values and supports them, they are more likely to stay with their institution for the long term, in other words--retention. Makes sense: Diversity in a team, such as our Auxiliary, will result in a richer pool of ideas, talents, and skills, contributing to leading progress for ourselves and within our organization. People like success. Others notice that success, especially families. Families in turn, support us in carrying out our mission. All this is to prepare us for a chance at something worthwhile of which to be proud. If we show each other that we genuinely care, encourage and celebrate excellence, then we too are unbeatable.

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment January 2024 The Test of Our Civilization

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

Shipmates, please take some time with this topic to start a discussion with your unit at your next meeting.

Utilizing these “Moments” fulfills Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star Diversity application.

 

January 2024

 

The Test of Our Civilization

 

***

“As society sees what women can do, as women see what women can do, there will be more women out there doing things, and we’ll all be better off for it."

~ Sandra Day O'Connor

 

Just last month, the Coast Guard recognized the pivotal 1973 ruling ending the branch of the Reserves known as the SPARS, thus integrating women fully into the enlisted and officer corps. There was a time when women rarely worked outside the home, and if they did, most were not in leadership roles. Exceptions were made temporarily during the World Wars, and participation at those levels increased in World War II. Despite being scaled back immediately following, the idea took hold and we never looked back since.

Chief Warrant Officer Alice T. Jefferson became the first woman to be commissioned as an active-duty officer in the Coast Guard at the 1973 ceremony held at Coast Guard Headquarters. Vice-Admiral Vivien Crea was the first female to be a presidential aide. YN2 Olivia Hooker was the first Black woman to join the Coast Guard. Captain Beverly Kelley became the first Coast Guard woman to command a military vessel of any branch of the armed services. These Coast Guard leaders broke multiple barriers and shattered long-held stereotypes.

Women were put to the test and passed superbly. As of 2023, the Coast Guard stands at the forefront of this transformation, with a remarkable surge in the inclusion of women in our ranks. The statistics reveal a significant stride with the Auxiliary boasting three times more women compared to active-duty. A journey that began with women serving as lighthouse keepers and support staff 200+ years ago has culminated in an environment where women are now integral to every domain within the Coast Guard, including its highest echelons of leadership. Today, those leaders include our Commandant and our Auxiliary Vice-National Commodore.

As we look forward to the next 50 years, we can confidently say that they have more than just passed the test. The Coast Guard has set the stage for many firsts for all women as a powerful indicator of the level of civilization and progress our society has achieved: understanding the imperative of inclusivity. The journey, begun two generations ago, is now a legacy of progress and a blueprint for a more inclusive future. That was the true test all along. Let’s empower our shipmates to contribute fully to the collective advancement of our organization, country, and civilization. Certainly, we will all be better off for it.

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

Submitted by:

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Assistant Nat’l Commodore – D&I-Directorate Deputy

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment December 2023 The Hand Speaks

USCG Auxiliary Diversity Moment

December 2023

The Hand Speaks

 

Please take some time to start a discussion with this topic with your shipmates at your next meeting.

Utilizing these “Moments” fulfills Goal Category 1.3 in the NACO 3-Star Diversity application.

 

***

“Generous leaders are servant leaders. They always come with open hands and an open heart.”
― Farshad Asl

 

Our directorate created a striking challenge coin several years ago, where the obverse side shows a circle of eight hands of different colors, all surrounding the Coast Guard shield in the center. The different color symbolism of hands should be evident enough, and the symbolism shouldn’t stop there: that superficial image on the coin prompts us to look beyond the simple outward appearance of our shipmates (indeed, all people) and to focus on the best qualities they bring to our Auxiliary and how we can effectively utilize them in all aspects of our missions in our communities.

 

The open palm has long been a symbol of openness, honesty, and acceptance. According to those who study body language, those thoughts and gestures are closely linked subconsciously. Gestures such as the open palm are nearly universally positive. The open hand has been described as an invitation, progressive, free, collaboration, etc. This is how we should approach one another if we are to fully realize the success that the Auxiliary is capable of. Applying this attitude speaks volumes of us.

 

Once again, this narrative is ultimately about respecting our shipmates and how we can lead others and lead positive change in the Auxiliary. But, it all starts with our being generous in spirit and time to assist others in our programs; being generous isn’t limited to just the “season” that is upon us; it is a continuous approach that guides our hands to action.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Brown, BC-DUP Outreach (Diversity & Inclusion Directorate)

 

Submitted by:

 

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Asst Nat’l Commodore – D&I-Directorate  Deputy

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

JAN 2024 DVM...

For posting...

 

V/r

Thomas W. Bamford, ANACO-DVd

Asst Nat’l Commodore – D&I-Directorate  Deputy

AUC – CGSTA Ft Myers Beach

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Seventh District U.S. Coast Guard

 

“Enthusiasm, Encouragement, Empowerment”

 

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