Women's Equality Day: U.S. Army Pays Tribute To the Women Soldiers and Civilians
What is it'
August 26 of each year is designated in the United States as Women's Equality Day. Instituted by Rep. Bella Abzug and first established in 1971, the date commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment, the Woman Suffrage Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which gave U.S. women full voting rights in 1920.
What has the Army done'
A tri-signed letter was signed by the secretary of the Army, the chief of staff and the sergeant major of the Army on August 19, 2009 recognizing Women's Equality Day and the contributions made by women to the Department of the Army. Many equal opportunity and equal employment opportunity offices throughout the U.S. Army have planned events in recognition of Women's Equality Day. Locally, on August 26, Fort Myer will host a 5K run, with remarks provided by Col. Richardson, the garrison commander. Also, on August 20, 2009, U.S. Army Human Resources Command featured Ms. Joyce E. Morrow, administrative assistant to the secretary of the Army, who provided an overview of the Senior Executive Services Program.
What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future'
The Department of the Army has on-going critical programs that work to improve the status of women. Two programs are the Federal Women's Program (FWP) and Women in the Army (WITA). FWP is an integral resource in identifying problems and recommending solutions that eliminate discrimination and the under representation of women within the Army. The mission of WITA is to enhance the readiness of the Army through the development and implementation of assignment policy for women within congressional mandates, Department of Defense guidance and Army force structure projections while ensuring opportunities for service and promotion.
Why is this important to the Army'
As this is the Year of the Noncommissioned Officer, we pay particular tribute to our female corporals and sergeants who exemplify courage. The role of the Army has changed and evolved tremendously throughout the years. Female Soldiers are strong, patriotic individuals who have served as leaders, role models and mentors. Women continue to break barriers on the battlefields and in every environment where the military serves.
Resources:
<a href="http://www.army.mil/women" target="_blank">Women in the U.S. Army</a>
<a href="http://www.army.mil/-images/2009/08/21/48667/index.html" target="_blank">Senior Leader Tri-signed letter</a>
<a href="http://www.army.mil/women/resources.html" target="_blank">Other links</a>
Related article: <a href="http://www.army.mil/-news/2009/08/26/26572-womens-equality-day-celebrates-universal-suffrage/index.html" target="_blank">Women's Equality Day celebrates universal suffrage</a>
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