Labor and Defense Minister Richard Marls has overturned a ban on workplace social justice activities, including LGBT morning teas, at the Australian Department of Defense.
The first ban was implemented last year under former Allied Defense Minister Peter Dutton.
On August 23, news outlets revealed that Secretary of Defense Greg Moriarty and Secretary of Defense Angus Campbell had instructed staff to confirm that Murless had ordered the removal of the policy.
“People have always been our most important asset and our defense is focused on building an inclusive and capable team, underpinned by our unified values and behaviors.” memowas seen by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
“We recognize that a diverse workforce supported by an inclusive culture is essential to the capabilities and effectiveness of the Department of Defense.
“I look forward to working with you to build capacity by developing a diverse and inclusive workforce to fulfill the Department of Defense’s mission.”
The new directive will allow the Department of Defense to host activities such as celebrating Wear it Purple, the annual LGBT awareness event.
“Awakening” in the Army
Last May, Dutton was banned in response to a morning tea event where defense staff were encouraged to wear badges and shirts in support of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia. I ordered
Dutton said the move was to keep defense staff focused and boost morale.
“I do not condone discrimination, but we are not pursuing a sensible agenda,” he told reporters. refers to awareness of the problem of
The original memo stated that the purpose of the Defense Force “is to remain focused, at all times, on our primary mission of protecting Australia’s national security interests.
Last May, Secretary of Defense Moriarty and General Campbell said, “Changes in language protocols and events such as morning tea that encourage people to wear specific clothing for celebrations are not necessary to achieve these important objectives. It should be stopped,” he said.
In the United States, the adoption of an “awake” policy has been accused of undermining military readiness.
“We undermine cohesion by highlighting differences based on race, ethnicity and gender. We undermine leadership authority by introducing questions about whether promotions are based on merit or assignment requirements.” said Thomas Spoor, former Lieutenant General and now director of the Heritage Foundation’s National Defense Center.
Meanwhile, one active-duty soldier revealed to The Epoch Times on August 14 that a prevalence of wakeful politics, which often portrays Western societies and institutions in a negative light, is hampering adoption.
“Much of the country doesn’t love America the way it used to,” he said. “What kind of recruits should we expect now that the military no longer lives up to its former values, oaths, or creeds? [to join the Army]?”
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Daniel Y. Teng is based in Sydney. His focus is on national politics such as federal politics, the COVID-19 response and Australia-China relations. Any tips? Please contact [email protected]