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The Department of Defense implemented a change to the military equal opportunity directive in June to resolve unlawful discrimination complaints based on sexual orientation.
Prior to the change, there were five stand-alone categories that fell under EO: race, color, sex, national origin and religion.
“This (policy change) is one more door that has opened to inclusion,” said Bryan Osborne, 86th Airlift Wing EO director and alternative dispute resolution manager. “This is a huge step forward for our Air Force, the DOD and for America.”
Throughout history, the U.S. military went through a time when women weren’t allowed to serve and African Americans weren’t allowed to become pilots. This change is just one more step toward opening the door to finally seeing all men and women are treated equal, Osborne said.
If a service member is having an issue in their unit that cannot be resolved by utilizing their chain of command, they are encouraged to seek help with the EO office.
“The EO office has so much to offer,” said Tech. Sgt. Shajita Rios, 86th AW EO adviser. “We have the latitude to clarify and address allegations, offer follow-up assistance or even serve as neutral third parties to work out disputes using facilitation and counseling methods.”
EO advisers are there to assist and clarify the information and ensure members understand the new policy; they will address cases of sexual orientation discrimination the same as they do for the other five categories.
“It is our job to take care of Airmen and get their minds off any negative human relations climate issues,” Rios said. “We want to help get them back on the mission and do what they do best.”
To date, there have been no sexual orientation complaints made on Ramstein. Osborne credits commanders for engaging with their units and spreading awareness.
“In my 33 years of federal service, I have never met a commander or director that does not care about his or her people,” Osborne said. “They want to make sure the people who take care of the mission are taken care of.”
Military or civilian personnel can contact EO with any questions or concerns at 489-8534 or they can email 86aw.meo@us.af.mil.
