The Balanced Approach to Military Inclusion: Debunking the False Dichotomy

The 2024 Presidential election is shaping up as a reckoning for America. Society is deeply divided over issues of race and gender, with conflicting opinions regarding historic values and the need for an inclusive society. This contentious debate has brought to the forefront the term 'woke,' which is often used as a pejorative by those who perceive the progressive movements and ideologies as overzealous and insincere. However, the conversation around military inclusion and the proposed rollback by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis raises important questions about the balance needed between preserving traditional values and fostering an inclusive society.

Understanding the Definition of 'Woke'

Let's begin with the term 'woke.' According to Wikipedia, 'woke' is an adjective derived from African-American Vernacular English (AAVE).

In the early 2020s, the term began to be used sarcastically by those on the right in several Western countries as a derogatory term for various leftist and progressive movements and ideologies they perceived as overzealous and performative or insincere. Some commentators came to consider 'woke' an offensive term that disparages persons who promote progressive ideas involving identity and race. This usage led to the creation of derivative terms such as 'woke-washing' and 'woke capitalism,' which describe the conduct of persons or entities who signal support for progressive causes rather than working toward genuine change.

DeSantis' Proposed Rollback: A Conservative Stance

Former Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed a rollback to military standards, which has led to concerns about the fitness and readiness of our military forces. The most notable aspect of his proposal is the rollback of policies allowing individuals to be openly homosexual and to undergo hormone therapy. DeSantis is attempting to align the military with conservative values, but this move comes with significant implications.

The Dichotomy of Woke and Tradition

DeSantis and those like him are advocating for a return to traditional values, often at the expense of progress and inclusivity. The idea is to please the religious right and Traditionalists, but this approach neglects the complexity of our society. We need to find a balanced approach that accommodates various standards and ensures full integration into the military while preserving the best of historic values.

The Impact on the Military and Society

The military is a vital component of any nation. It must not only defend the nation but also maintain its readiness, flexibility, and overall effectiveness. Some progressions, such as allowing openly LGBTQ individuals to serve, have actually strengthened the military. These changes have uplifted morale and encouraged a diverse and inclusive environment, which can contribute to better performance and teamwork.

On the other hand, abrupt and wide-ranging changes can be detrimental. The sudden abolition of policies that accommodate troops going through hormone therapy can lead to a significant morale issue, affecting overall readiness. The military needs to balance between preserving tradition and embracing progress, ensuring that changes are made in a rational and realistic way.

A Middle Ground: Inclusive Policies with Accommodations

Our society is not ready for an all-or-nothing approach to inclusiveness. We need a middle ground where we can increase acceptance while addressing practical problems. The military must accommodate individuals who have different standards than the majority while also promoting equality and valuing everyone. We need a set of policies that are inclusive but also recognize the need for doctrinal changes that move the bar without leaving half of the population behind.

The key is to find ways to leverage the strengths of each diverse group without doing so at the expense of other groups. If we fail to recognize and honor the values that each group brings, we will simply be exchanging one set of contributions for another, ultimately hindering growth and progress.

Conclusion

The debate over military inclusion and the proposed rollback by Ron DeSantis highlights the need for a balanced and rational approach. We must accommodate both traditional values and progressive changes, ensuring that the military remains strong, adaptable, and effective. Finding this middle ground is crucial for the future of our nation and its military. We must strive for a society where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity.