REDSTONE ARSENAL, Alabama -- The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command conducted its first Equal Opportunity Focus Group recently to concentrate on issues involving race relations, diversity and equality within society and the workplace.
"I wanted to be proactive and gather together individuals who wanted to not just talk about issues but also be advocates for change," said Master Sgt. Martinis Butler, USASMDC/ARSTRAT equal opportunity adviser. "While serving as the facilitator during the focus group, I wanted to provide a safe environment that would encourage open and honest conversations about race issues and how the need for equal rights cease to resonate within the workplace and in society today."
Butler said every volunteer who took part in the focus group arrived motivated and was encouraged to consider issues other than personal interests. He said the volunteers were given adequate amount of time for feedback with each topic that was discussed.
"Many of the volunteers believed in the concept that out of each discussion a better decision could potentially evolve," Butler said. "As an equal opportunity adviser my job is to help create, formulate and sustain a comprehensive effort to maximize human potential and to ensure fair treatment to all people. It's understood that one focus group will not correct all of the issues identified but it was believed by many who participated that it was a step in the right direction.
"The overall intent is to continue having a plethora of open and honest dialogue in hopes to change the hearts and minds of people so that together, we can begin to effect change within society and in the workplace," he added.
All members of SMDC were invited to participate and give their input on subjects that are sometimes considered hot-button issues. Some of the focus group topics of discussion that generated feedback included the Army's new policy in reference to transgender Soldiers, the choice of sitting or kneeling during the National Anthem, perceived police brutality, continuing cultural programs and others.
"It was beneficial to have a time of open discussion about issues that are impacting our nation and society as a whole," said Abigale Dixon, SMDC Readiness and Resilience coordinator. "I wish more people had attended, but for those who participated, I was thankful that the conversation remained respectful. I heard some different perspectives that got me thinking and even doing a little digging of my own to understand issues better.
"Controversial topics are something I tend to avoid so there was a level of discomfort," she added. "That said, I believe personal growth comes from stretching oneself and pushing past discomfort. Participating in the focus group was a valuable experience that expanded my understanding of certain topics and broadened my perspective."
Others participating in the EO focus group said it was personally beneficial. They said the event created an opportunity for people to express their concerns, questions, opinions and observations of recent racial events and have their opinions heard.
"This forum was an open discussion to stimulate cross talk and promote open discussion on specific issues in our country pertaining to equal opportunity," said SMDC G-3 Sgt. Maj. Heather Smith. "I learned that these focus groups are necessary within organizations to enhance esprit de corps and share ideas, perceptions and perspectives.
"The key to balancing racial equality is education and culture," she added. "Huntsville is a great example of this. I have never lived in an environment that was as racially harmonious as Huntsville and Madison. This is a highly educated community that seems to have figured out the importance of education and how it pertains to equality. People should be judged on what they bring to the table, as opposed to their skin color. I truly love this town for this reason."
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