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
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“…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”