Managing Diversity in the Military

This edited book examines the management of diversity and inclusion in the military.
Owing to the rise of asymmetric warfare, a shift in demographics and labor shortfalls, the US Department of Defense (DoD) has prioritized diversity and inclusion in its workforce management philosophy. In pursuing this objective, it must ensure the attractiveness of a military career by providing an inclusive environment for all personnel (active and reserve military, civilian, and contractors) to reach their potential and maximize their contributions to the organization. Research and practice alike provide substantial evidence of the benefits associated with diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Diversity and inclusion programs are more strategic in focus than equal opportunity programs and strive to capitalize on the strengths of the workforce, while minimizing the weaknesses that inhibit optimal organizational performance. This new book provides vital clarification on these distinct concepts, in addition to offering concrete best practices for the successful management of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Written by scholars and practitioners, each chapter addresses major areas, raises crucial issues, and comments on future trends concerning diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
The book will be of great interest to students of military studies, war and conflict studies, business management/HRM, psychology and politics in general, as well as to military professionals and leaders.

Daniel P. McDonald is the Executive Director of Research, Development, and Strategic Initiatives for the Department of Defense, Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI), has supported the US DoD for nearly 20 years, and was Adjunct Professor at the University of Central Florida, USA, teaching Research and Statistical Methods in Psychology. Kizzy M. Parks is the President of K. Parks Consulting, Inc., and is Adjunct College Professor for Brevard Community College (BCC) and DeVry University, USA.

1. Introduction and chapter integration Part I: Foundation of Diversity: policy and strategy 2. Reframing the diversity discussion: the need for internal dialogue 3. Diversity policies across the Department of Defense 4. 2K10 and beyond: diversity, inclusion and the respect for others in the US culture 5. Leading across diversity 6. Lessons learned on diversity across military organizations 7. Getting to "Ground Truth" in the military: conducting diversity assessments Part II: Special topics in diversity and inclusion 8. Status, power, and diversity in the military 9. . Diversity and inclusion: an equal opportunity practitioner's perspective 10. Generational diversity: removing barriers to building bridges 11. Exploring the management of religious diversity within the US Military 12. Wounded Warriors: an inclusive culture for all in the workplace 13. LGB and possible challenges that will happen now that "Don't Ask Don't Tell" has been repealed 14. A New Angle on the US Military's emphasis on developing cross-cultural competence: connecting in-ranks' cultural diversity to cross-cultural competence